The purpose of the study was to enlighten the background, psychopathology and criminality of young delinquents. Twenty years of reports for the court regarding young delinquents were analysed and information as to background, educational level, psychiatric diagnoses, criminal records and sentence was registered. Among 91 delinquents aged 15-17 years, 65% had not completed primary school and 50% were unemployed. Eighty percent had committed violent acts (homicide or attempted homicide, robbery, violence, rape). Twenty-two percent were sentenced to psychiatric treatment, and more than 50% were imprisoned. In conclusion young delinquents have severe social problems and a disproportionally high number suffer from psychiatric illness. The main part of the adolescents are convicted to prison, in spite of young age, and at present no institutions in Denmark are suitable for the treatment of young delinquents with severe criminal records.