This class will seek to understand contemporary street gangs in
America.  Students will gain a better understanding of street gangs
and learn to apply this knowledge by analyzing innovative police
strategies.  Such an objective will be achieved by discussing
important contributions to gang research.  In addition to
investigating major thoeries about street gangs and deviance, the
class will also look at what gang members do in their everyday
life.  We will seek to understand the delinquent behavior of gang
members and examine the reasons for gang violence.  All gangs,
however, are not identical and this class will also discuss
different types of gangs found in research.  Since street gangs
continue to be a focal concern for police agencies, we will also
examine innovative strategies to reduce gang violence.

Class meeting:  Tuesday and Thursday, 11:15-12:30

Instructor:  Tim Lauger, criminal justice department