This book provides readers with a thorough exploration of the many facets of today's policing--starting with the role of today's police officer. It offers a mixture of theory and practice highlighted by real experiences, observations, and anecdotes as well as realistic examples and applications of the theory, " Case in Points" sections, numerous photographs and popular cartoons. The focus of this book is on policing today and tomorrow rather than the history of police operations. The Police Role in Our Society, A Systems Perspective, Patrol, Criminal Investigations and other Support Units, Organization and Management, Police and the Law, The Use of Discretion, Community Relations, Recruitment, The Personality of Police Officers, Issues: Today and Tomorrow. Police Officers, Law Enforcement Officers and others involved in the criminal justice system.