This student-friendly introductory core text describes the criminal justice process in the United States - outlining the decisions, practices, people, and issues involved. It provides a solid introduction to the mechanisms of the criminal justice system, with balanced coverage of the issues presented by each facet of the process, including a thorough review of practices and controversies in law enforcement, the criminal courts, and corrections. * 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