Providing a timely and much-needed investigation of how U.S. law enforcement carries out its public safety and crime fighting mandates, this book is an invaluable resource for students, educators, and concerned citizens.

• Provides a single-volume, go-to source for insight into police-citizen relations in the United States, from the 17th century through to today

• Documents major turning points and historical events influencing the evolution of police power

• Provides both supportive and critical perspectives on contemporary trends in law enforcement activities, attitudes, and practices

• Enables a fuller comprehension of law enforcement in an era of significant political and social upheaval, much of which is tied to racial, ethnic, or economic factors