This comprehensive text provides an overview of law enforcement topics, integrating major empirical findings and theory-based research findings in the field with a thorough analysis of contemporary policing problems. The issues-oriented discussion focuses on critical concerns facing American police, including personnel systems, organization and management, operations, discretion, use of force, culture and behavior, ethics and deviance, civil liability and police-community relations. A critical assessment of police history and the role politics played in the development of American police institutions is offered. Globalization, terrorism and homeland security are addressed. Video links provide additional coverage of topics discussed in the text. Now in full color, with color photographs and illustrations. Video links provide additional coverage of topics discussed in the text. Key concepts, internet links, charts and tables support the text throughout. Includes a glossary.