By examining the influence of social, political, economic and cultural forces on the evolution of modern law enforcement, this updated Third Edition discusses the struggle between existing conventions in law enforcement and today's push for reform. This book is an ideal introduction to law enforcement and goes beyond discussions of local policing to examine how forces like technology, privatization, and the threat of terrorism are affecting law enforcement on local, state, and national levels. Readers will learn how these diverse and unpredictable forces are shaping the future of law enforcement in the United States, and will come away with the ability to think critically about law enforcement issues.

New Material added to the revised and updated Third Edition:

-"Stay Current" boxes throughout the text offer references and key search terms for further internet research
-Updated figures, tables, charts and other statistical and descriptive information
-A New chapter on socialization, advancement, and professionalism, including ethics and misconduct
-A New chapter with emphasis on law enforcement's role in national security, homeland security, and protecting private assets
-A separate chapter on "Policing Strategies, Tactics, and Daily Operations"
-An expanded and updated chapter on management issues
-Updated and expanded appendices