Introduction to Criminal Justice provides students with a comprehensive overview of four key, topical areas within criminal justice: the law, the police, the courts, and corrections. In Unit I, The Law, students read articles that examine the purpose of the law in general, as well as the specific purposes of criminal law, and also address the complex question of "What is crime?" Unit II features readings that focus on law enforcement in America, police operations, and police discretion. Students consider the unique roles of police officers and how their professional responsibilities often conflict with each other, sometimes resulting in conflict and tension within the communities they are meant to serve. In Unit III, The Courts, students are presented with an overview of the U.S. court system; the qualifications, roles, and responsibilities of key decision-makers in criminal courts; and the sentencing of convicted offenders. The final unit explains how the theories, purposes, and techniques of punishment have changed over the centuries and explores the state of corrections in modern-day practice. Designed to provide students with an invaluable knowledge base in the discipline, Introduction to Criminal Justice is an ideal textbook for foundational courses and programs in criminal justice.

Contemporary Issues in Policing: Foundational Readings provides students with insights into modern challenges and opportunities within law enforcement and policing. The first reading in the collection introduces students to the function of the police, the various levels of law enforcement, and the evolution of American policing. Additional readings explore the demographic make-up of America's law enforcement agencies; the difficulties facing the field with regard to recruiting, hiring, and retaining officers with minority status; how police departments select, train, and supervise their officers; and various models of police behavior. Students read about the controversy surrounding the police use of discretion, the complex issue of police use of force, the various types of misconduct and corruption that can occur in the field of policing, and the importance of investigating civilian complaints against the police. The final reading underscores the importance of change in the field of policing. Throughout, pre- and post-reading questions engage students and encourage critical thinking. A critical resource for today's students, Contemporary Issues in Policing is an ideal resource for courses in law enforcement and policing.