James J. Chriss is Associate Professor of Sociology at Cleveland State University. He research focuses on criminological theory, sociological theory, policing, and social control. His Most recent book is Social Control (2007).

“[This text is] very authoritative, and covers the nuances of policing in America. The author, who is a sociology and criminology professor, has extensive knowledge which he brought to bear in discussing the various issues hovering around American policing. In view of this, [this text] is strongly recommended to anyone who wants to acquire detailed knowledge on both the historical and contemporary developments of American policing.” -Criminal Justice Review

• Chapter 1 Explaining the Police; Chapter 2 Three Eras of Policing; Chapter 3 Policing in the Wild West; Chapter 4 Integrity Testing and the Decision to Arrest; Chapter 5 Post 9-11 Policing: A Functional Analysis; Chapter 6 Elements of Police Discretion; Chapter 7 The Concept of Proactivity: From Indirect Conation to Modern Municipal Policing; Chapter 8 Police as Contact Men and Women; Chapter 9 Security and Private Policing; Chapter 10 Police and Society: A Summary of Principles;