Introduction to Criminal Justice

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 on theoretical 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

Lawrence F. Travis III is a Professor of Criminal Justice at the University of Cincinnati. His primary research interests lie in policing, criminal justice policy reform, sentencing, and corrections.