Introduction to Criminal Justice

Synopsis

Introduction to Criminal Justice, Seventh Edition, introduces readers to the field of criminal justice. The book is organized around three basic themes: the system-like nature of criminal justice, the core conflict between due process and crime control, and the importance of discretion. Key topics discussed include criminal justice perspectives; the justice process; crime and crime control; crime statistics; police and policing; law enforcement in the criminal justice system; the criminal courts; people and problems in the courts; and the goals and process of punishment. The book also covers problems and issues in incarceration; probation, parole, and community corrections; issues in community supervision; the juvenile justice system; and discharge and developments. This new edition provides expanded coverage of topics such as impact of current federal attention to terrorism and homeland security, and the justice system s growing emphasis on crime prevention and community quality of life. There is also an increased focus on criminal justice theory, aimed at encouraging theoretical thinking in students. * Each chapter is enhanced by important terms, boxes, photos, and review questions *New edition includes updated statistics and an extended focus ontheoretical approaches throughout the text * New information and attention added on terrorism and homeland security issues * An easy-to-access glossary offers a complete collection of essential terms in criminal justice"