PUBLIC POLICY OF CRIME AND CRIMINAL JUSTICE, 2/e explains the public policy process and applies it directly to crime and criminal justice. Written by scholars in the field of criminal justice, with backgrounds in political science and public policy, the book presents a solid understanding of public policy and then describes each of the various actors in the public policy process at the federal, state and local level. This edition includes an enhanced focus on state and local issues, updated research and illustrations that reflect the Obama administration. Finally, it closes with a real-world case study that illustrates how policy and politics impact criminal justice.