This is a brilliant book written by a brilliant observer and researcher. The book is about a subject of immediate and enduring concern to all who work in the field of law enforcement, as well as the community at large. Klein's critical analysis of other related theories and the point-by-point discussion and disagreements make this a tome that must be read, and more importantly, critically understood by those on both sides of the issues raised. […] This is truly a full book with much more to examine than can be done in a single review. It must be read, analyzed, studied, and understood by the most astute student." —James L. Greenstone, Ed.D., J.D., Editor-in-Chief, <em>Journal of Police Emergency Response: An International Journal of Hostage Negotiations and Crisis Intervention</em>, and Sharon C. Leviton, Ph.D., DABECI, Editor, <em>Journal of Police Emergency Response: An International Journal of Hostage Negotiations and Crisis Intervention</em>
The book begins by critically examining assertions by Peter Kraska, a professor, and by Radley Balko, a journalist, that the police have become militarized. Later chapters reveal the reality of narcotics raids and the problem with the War on Drugs, examine how the ACLU has criticized SWAT teams in the media, and explore the intertwining of race, poverty, and drugs. Readers gain new perspectives on the riots in Ferguson and in Baltimore through the eyes of law enforcement officials. The book additionally describes real-world examples of the use of excessive force and proposed non-violent alternatives.
In employing a social science perspective to the complexities of law enforcement in modern society, The Militarization of the Police? Ideology Versus Reality, is an ideal text for courses in criminal justice, law enforcement, and social science.