This course studies the history, evolution and challenges associated with modern policing in the United States through a shared legal and criminological lens. It deals with fundamental issues concerning the relationship between the state and the individual, and raises critical concerns about surveillance, force, racial justice, and basic civil liberties. Topics include police stops, frisks, searches, uses of force, examining various models of policing, and police culture. This course is essential starting ground for anyone interested in practicing in the criminal justice space, be it direct services or law reform, but will be of interest to anyone concerned about some of the paramount issues of the day: community policing, police strategy, tactics, and oversight, excessive force cases, and qualified immunity.