Clearly introducing the complexities of policing today, Mark Dantzker—a former police officer himself—outlines key professional duties in the context of the changing nature of the field.

Dantzker explores the myths and realities of criminal investigation, the challenges of patrol, police misconduct, and the crucial use of officer discretion. He also discusses the importance of an officer’s work in the realm of both police-community relations and the larger criminal justice system. Throughout his comprehensive text, he offers an effective mix of theory and practice enhanced by real-life observations and grounded in scholarly research. 

Mark L. Dantzker is professor of criminal justice at the University of Texas, Pan American.