Introduction to Policing: Perceptions Versus Reality provides students with a comprehensive and insightful overview of the policing profession. The text combines scholarly research and accounts from the author's personal experience as a police officer to provide a balanced and authentic look into the everyday realities of the law enforcement profession.


The opening chapter explores the history and evolution of policing, detailing key players and significant eras that have advanced the profession. Later chapters outline historical and contemporary perceptions of policing, including common viewpoints from specific populations and the efforts many organizations have undertaken to rebuild trust and positive perception in the police. Students learn about the requirements and process for becoming a police officer, the basics of law enforcement administration, and how police organizations interact with homeland security. The text closes with chapters that discuss legal procedures, professionalism, and future initiatives.
The revised first edition includes a new chapter titled Policing in the 21st Century, which discusses citizens review boards, choke holds, no-knock warrants, the Community Policing Act, calls to disband the police, and other contemporary developments within the discipline.
Equal parts academic and engaging, Introduction to Policing is an ideal resource for foundational courses in criminal justice, law enforcement, and policing.