The death of Michael Brown at the hands of a white Ferguson police officer has uncovered an apparent legitimacy crisis at the heart of American policing. Some have claimed that de-policing may have led officers to become less proactive.

How exactly has the policing of gangs and violence changed in the post-Ferguson era? This book explores this question, drawing on participant observation field notes and in-depth interviews with officers, offenders, practitioners, and community members in a Southern American state.

As demands for police reform have once again come into focus following George Floyd’s death, this crucial book informs future policing practice to promote effective crime prevention and gain public trust.

“The exploration by Deuchar et al. of the theory behind strategies positioned to improve police and community relations is valuable for helping practitioners to understand the complexity of police and community relations and how the current situation developed over time. Based on their interviews and observations, they recommend a purposeful plan for improving police community relations that embeds strategies consistent with procedural justice, enhanced transparency, and purposeful outreach.” Police Practice & Research

Ross Deuchar is Professor of Criminology and Criminal Justice at the University of the West of Scotland, UK and Affiliate Research Professor within the School of Criminology and Criminal Justice at Florida Atlantic University, US.

Vaughn J. Crichlow is Associate Professor in the School of Criminology and Criminal Justice, and Associate Dean in the College of Social Work and Criminal Justice at Florida Atlantic University, US.

Seth W. Fallik is Assistant Professor and Undergraduate Program Coordinator in the School of Criminology and Criminal Justice within the College of Social Work and Criminal Justice at Florida Atlantic University, US.