Transnational Organized Crime: Yesterday and Today

Transnational organized crime poses a significant and growing threat to national and international security. Not only are criminal networks expanding, they also are diversifying their criminal activities, resulting in the convergence of threats that were once distinct and today have even more explosive and destabilizing effects. Transnational Organized Crime: Yesterday and Today provides students with a comprehensive examination of criminal behaviors within the global arena, with an emphasis on transnational organized crime and domestic as well as international efforts to identify and address these criminal activities. Opening chapters introduce and define transnational organized crime (TOC), discuss the concepts of corruption and hyper-globalization, and present classical and contemporary theories related to TOC. Students learn about the role of technology in expanding criminal networks, leadership and membership positions/functions within international crime organizations, and demographic country-level variables that make nations more susceptible to organized crime. The book addresses the role of TOC organizations in crimes against humanity, vulnerable groups, and the environment. Students learn about drug trafficking; weapons trafficking; human trafficking; environmental crimes and wildlife trafficking; the illicit trade of art, antiquities, and other goods; and violent extremism and terrorism. Closing chapters discuss police efforts to control TOC and provide an overview of international courts and justice. Transnational Organized Crime is an ideal textbook for courses in organized crime, transnational crime, and comparative criminal justice.