The methodological approach to the case studies is comparative and includes an interactive framework that incorporates a number of key variables.  These variables examine how each riot began, how they developed, the response strategies and tactics used by the police, and how the riots eventually ended. The first section looks at defining riots and examines the riot literature and research to date.  The second section analyses the current police response to rioting. The third and final section includes an analysis and comparison of the case study riots, along with an examination of how the police response to riots could be improved.

With its focus on police practices, this unique volume will be useful for researchers, students, police, law enforcement, and policy makers.

Garth den Heyer is a Professor at Walden University and Arizona State University, and is a Senior Research Fellow with the National Police Foundation in Washington, D.C.  He was previously an Inspector with the New Zealand Police.