The present study explored the MMPI‐2 correlates of criminal history in a sample of prison inmates. Although Ma was the only basic scale to demonstrate a significant positive association to crime history, three Harris–Lingoes subscales also bore significant associations to this criterion. The Ma1 (amorality), Pd2 (authority problems), and Pd5 (self‐alienation) subscales demonstrated positive associations with crime history. Hierarchical multiple‐regression analyses were used to examine the incremental validity of the D, Pd, and Ma Harris–Lingoes subscales when added to their parent scales in the prediction of crime history. Only the Pd Harris–Lingoes subscales demonstrated incremental validity in the prediction of this criterion. The value of including the Ma and Pd Harris–Lingoes subscales in criminal risk assessment is discussed. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Clin Psychol 57: 1369–1380, 2001.