Understanding Organized Crime provides a comprehensive introduction to the subject of organized crime. Written by leading experts in the field, this book covers the complex and controversial issues associated with organized crime.  Topics covered include the various definitions of organized crime, why it continues to exist, how it has evolved throughout history, and different types of organized crime factions.  Using the author’s unique approach to the topic, students will learn about organized crime through the eyes of the criminal investigator, and how law-enforcement practitioners today are counteracting these prevailing criminal organizations.