Which of the following statements about jails is true?

Jails are primarily designed for individuals who are either awaiting trial or serving short sentences, which makes the statement about their function accurate. Unlike prisons, which are intended for long-term confinement after a conviction, jails often house people who have committed minor offenses or are waiting for their court hearings, making option B an essential characteristic of their operation.

Moreover, jails serve essential functions in the legal system, including holding individuals who cannot afford bail and providing a place for those convicted of misdemeanors to serve short-term sentences. This context enhances the understanding of why jails are crucial in the criminal justice process.

In contrast, other statements do not accurately represent jails. Some facilities may focus on rehabilitation, but not all jails are mandated to offer comprehensive rehabilitation programs, which is why that statement is not universally true. Not all jails are run entirely by private companies, as many are operated by local governments. Finally, the concept of long-term imprisonment is more accurately associated with prisons rather than jails, reinforcing the truth of the correct answer.