In the stressful and unpredictable world of law enforcement, police officers and detectives often turn to the Internet as a medium to tell their stories and inform others. Here are our picks for the 25 best police and detective blogs active in the last year based on quality and frequency of posts.

1. 24×7 – Canadian patrol officer Jim Ingram updates his blog weekly with stories from the road in Delta, British Columbia. Ingram’s blog breaks down into two sections: his Shift Diary, which consists of short updates on his experiences as a cop, and a selection of longer editorials. His writing style is clear, to the point and informative.
Where to begin: Read about Ingram’s respect for his profession and his comrades in Thin blue line.

2. Bad Luck Detective As someone who entered law enforcement late in life, Detective Suzie Ivy brings a unique perspective to the virtual pages of her blog. Her posts are long, detailed and always readable, and as evidenced by the site’s title, she tends to not take herself terribly seriously. The Bad Luck Detective is the rare blog that manages to be entertaining and informative.
Where to begin: Santa Wears Both puts a holiday twist on an otherwise typical day in a police detective’s life.

3. Behind the Blue Line Constable Sandra Glendinning is a veteran police dog handler in Vancouver. The author’s love of dogs really comes to the fore in every post, as does her commitment to law enforcement and her desire to educate readers about the real life of a police officer. Her narrative style and clear writing may her posts easy to read.
Where to begin: Our Last Week in Operations is a heartfelt story about the author’s final days with a police dog.

4. The Boogie Man Is My Friend – This entertaining blog comes from the perspective of a former police officer and focuses on the less serious aspects of her career. The author recalls plenty of uncensored conversations from her time in uniform and manages to weave in some insight within the comedy.
Where to begin: Take a look at Double Negative for an introduction to the author’s candid style.

5. Brian Cain Online – Police sergeant and chaplain Brian Cain blogs about leadership in law enforcement along with life in general. His style is generally upbeat, always informative, engaging and conversational. In addition to writing about law enforcement and his home and family, Cain often recommends books and other resources to his readers.
Where to begin: The first entry in a four-part book review, Clean discusses some of Cain’s personal struggles and the challenges presented by his job.

6.Cop in the Hood – Former police officer Peter Moskos, now an associate professor at John Jay College of Criminal Justice, updates this blog with tales from his time as a Baltimore cop mixed with current events in the world of criminal justice. Moskos’ unique combination of firsthand experience and advanced education make his blog a must-read, and the comments are nearly as insightful as the posts.
Where to begin: Understanding the NRA World View is a great introdution to Moskos’ deep insight.

7. Cop Talk – Jim and Brent Lambert and Brent Burzycki are law officers in California’s Bay Area; they use this website to answer readers’ questions about police, fire and medical emergencies. Cop Talk includes information on identity theft, security systems, Internet security, natural disasters, current events, general safety tips and more, plus a special “Ask a Cop” section that responds to readers’ questions.
Where to begin: Craigslist – Love it or Fear it? takes a look at one of the most potentially dangerous sites out there.

8. Cop Thoughts – The title more or less says it all: This blog is an inside look at the mind of a police officer. The author talks frankly about his interactions with lawbreakers, and each post is written as if speaking directly to the reader. Cop Thoughts is candid, pulls no punches and offers a thoroughly engaging reading experience.
Where to begin: Ration gives readers a candid depiction of the author’s thoughts on “victims” who are anything but.

9. Covered Law Enforcement – Tennessee police officer Jonathan Parker blogs about his life as a cop and his Christian ministry to fellow law officers. There’s plenty of Bible in his posts, and he’s unafraid to talk about his sometimes controversial political views, but even when his writing has nothing to do with law enforcement per se, everything on this blog comes from an officer’s perspective.
Where to begin: A Police Officer’s Final Judgment discusses the often difficult issue of morality in law enforcement.

10. Crime File News – Written by a former Chicago detective, this blog certainly doesn’t lack for interesting and sometimes controversial content. The author is unafraid to share his strong political views and blogs on current topics in law, crime and violence. Posts are unfailingly well-written, clear, readable and filled with pertinent information.
Where to begin: For a candid look at the author’s opinionated, well-reasoned arguments, try For Violence in America, There is no Cure, Only Treatment.

11. The Director’s Desk – Formerly known as the Chief’s Corner, this blog belongs to Tom Casady, public safety director and former police chief in Lincoln, Nebraska. Casady updates the site every few days with current events in Lincoln, news from around the world of law enforcement and thoughts on technology, resources and equipment. The author brings extensive experience to the table, and every post is informative.
Where to begin: Not that way everywhere takes a candid look at the role of information technology in law enforcement.

12. Duke’s Daily Blotter – Earl ‘Duke’ Filskov updates this blog daily with law enforcement news from all over the United States. The Daily Blotter brings together news articles from a broad range of contributors, including journalists and official press releases, complete with Duke’s brief, often biting remarks on the content.
Where to begin: Duke’s Around the Water Cooler segments round up quick responses to reader questions with a little added commentary.

13. I aim to misbehave – The author of this blog is a police officer, husband, father, student, gamer and more, and he writes about every aspect of his life. His posts range from quick updates to lengthy editorials, all told from a unique, introspective viewpoint that really engages the reader.
Where to begin: While helping out at the academy, the author works with several aspiring officers and comes up with some insightful commentary in A tale of two recruits…

14. Improving Police – David Couper, a retired police chief and ordained pastor, brings decades of experience and advanced education to this detailed and well-written blog. Chief Couper writes weekly about politics, ethics, leadership and other topics from the perspective of a veteran law officer; his posts are lengthy and full of relevant information and sound reasoning.
Where to begin: Couper explores the delicate problem of balancing law and morals in Just Because We Can, Should We?

15. MotorCop – This highly entertaining blog is filled with stories told by a California motorcycle cop. MotorCop is an always exciting and occasionally hilarious look at law enforcement from a none-too-serious perspective, and it also includes information on current events, links to good causes and the occasional rambling on non-law enforcement topics.
Where to begin: Enjoy one of MotorCop’s more entertaining pieces, The Family That Speeds Together…

16. Officer Smith – Written from the perspective of a California peace officer, this blog is full of personal views, anecdotes and commentary on current political issues. Smith is occasionally long-winded, but it’s always worth reading through his posts thanks to his engaging writing style, clear message and willingness to speak his mind.
Where to begin: Take a look at one of Smith’s more entertaining anecdotes in Road Closed… Detour…

17. Police Inspector Blog – Maintained by “Inspector Gadget,” a veteran law officer in Ruralshire, England, this blog focuses on media reviews, law enforcement news from around the world, political commentary and thoughts on the daily grind of working as an inspector. As one of Britain’s most popular blogs, this site draws hundred of comments on every post.
Where to begin: Inspector Gadget tackles the often difficult relationship between politics and law enforcement in Is it just me, or are the police getting older?

18. Raindogblue – One of the most unique law enforcement sites around, Raindogblue’s posts are as much art as they are prose. Current events mix with poetic thoughts on days and nights in the life of a police officer, giving this blog a fresh and interesting perspective on the challenges of working in law enforcement.
Where to begin: Robbery tells the story of a criminal with a unique background, giving readers a look at the hidden complexity of a police officer’s work.

19. Riding in the Squad with Christ – This blog explores police, faith and life with just a bit of humor thrown in for good measure. Posts run the gamut from lengthy editorials to short updates, complete with links to videos and helpful illustrations.
Where to begin: Read To account for… life and death at a traffic stop for an introduction to the author’s insightful, introspective approach.

20. Second City Cop – This whimsical blog comes from the perspective of a veteran Windy City police officer. SCC is updated very frequently with current events in Chicago, thoughts on ethics in law enforcement and responses to reader feedback. One of the best features is an eight-part series on problems facing modern police departments and possible solutions.
Where to begin: For a look at SCC’s willingness to criticize political leaders, see Sequence is Important.

21. Sgt Says – A reserve police officer and training sergeant from an agency in California shares his thoughts on current events, officer safety, training, firearms and more. With new posts every day, readers can keep coming back to this blog for the latest in law enforcement news. Every post is readable and to the point, and the author makes his viewpoint clear without sounding arrogant.
Where to begin: Get a taste of the author’s technical aptitude for police work in Transition.

22. Suddenly Cop Wife – This blog describes the life of a woman who finds herself unexpectedly thrust into the role of an officer’s wife. The author’s conversational style and candid writing make her blog highly engaging, and she draws from both current events and anecdotes from her husband’s time on patrol to entertain and inform her readers.
Where to begin: Weaving together popular culture and a true story, Horror Show is some of this blogger’s best work.

23. The Things Worth Believing In – On this blog, a veteran police officer discusses the technical aspects of police work, including choosing equipment, carrying out searches and using weapons effectively. The blog features a series of posts called Tactical Preschool with more than 60 lessons on common police tactics, plus commentary on relevant political issues and links to informative resources and videos.
Where to begin: The author offers his thoughts on a very timely issue in Where to start with school security.

24. Think Different – Commander Kristen Ziman of the Aurora Police Department in Illinois updates this blog with personal stories and commentary on current news and events in law enforcement. Think Different is only updated biweekly, but her posts are always long, detailed and easy to read. Ziman’s rare combination of extensive experience and writing aptitude makes her blog truly outstanding.
Where to begin: Read Random Acts of Altruism for an insightful and uplifting story on real kindness among police officers.

25. Tired Dispatcher – Here, an experienced and often exhausted 911 dispatcher shares stories from her side of law enforcement. Posts are somewhat sporadic, but everything on this blog is engaging, entertaining and highly readable.
Where to begin: For a highly personal look at a frightening incident, read Occupied Residential Burglary.

Based on content, aesthetics, frequency of postings and benefit to current and aspiring forensics specialists, the following list spotlights 25 of the best blogs about forensic science active in 2012. The blogs are grouped according to the discipline of forensic science they most frequently cover.

Computer Forensics

1. Didier Stevens: Based in Belgium, this blog maintained by a security researcher concentrates on computer forensics, IT security, programming and hardware hacking. Targeted primarily at technology professionals, the blog also tackles issues important to consumers such as PDF vulnerability and protection against malicious PDFs.
Where to begin: Check out Searching With VirusTotal, in which the author reveals a proprietary Python program he wrote to fine-tune a technical search request.

2. Forensic Focus Blog: In-depth interviews with prominent professionals in the field of computer forensics are a focal point of this blog. It also includes valuable news updates, links to online seminars and information on job vacancies in the digital forensics industry.
Where to begin: Check out Interview with Eddie Sheehy, CEO, Nuix for an informative discussion with a major player in the forensics business. He reviews the state of the industry and touches on some challenges it will face in the coming years.

3. Forensic Video and Image Analysis: On the cutting edge of the analysis of video and images, this blog hosts a discussion on image processing fundamentals and the relevant software and hardware produced by major developers. It also covers court cases, training in the field and product reviews.
Where to begin: Check out The Perils of Using the Local Computer Shop for Computer Forensics, which issues a warning about self-proclaimed experts who are actually unqualified in forensics.

4. A Geek Raised by Wolves: An expert in computer forensics maintains this imaginatively titled blog. Heavy on technical analysis, it explores computer code and how it relates to consumers as well as professionals in the industry.
Where to begin: Read Privacy Issues in Google Chrome are Opportunities for Forensic Examiners for a look at how records linked to the popular web browser could be used in an investigation.

5. Windows Incident Response: Written by an author of several highly respected books on computer forensics, this blog is dedicated to a discussion of incident response and the digital analysis of Windows systems. It contains news items designed to appeal to customers of digital analysis firms as well.
Where to begin: Check out Malware Detection for a breakdown of some of the latest research on rooting out threats to computer operation.

Forensic Anthropology and Psychology

6. Forensic Anna:thropology: A lecturer in forensic anthropology at Cranfield University in the United Kingdom shares her passion for the subject in this blog. The author makes an effort to includes posts that interest the general public as well as students and industry professionals.
Where to begin: Check out Fun at the Royal Society, in which the writer recaps her experience at a prestigious British science conference.

7. In the News: Forensic Psychology, Criminology and Psychology-Law: Maintained by a forensic psychologist and professor at Alliant University in Northern California, this blog features updates on current events related to forensic psychology. The author relies on her expertise in criminal investigations and legal affairs in her commentary on the news.
Where to begin: Check out Jury Expert: Timely Focus on False Confessions for a roundup of the latest expert opinions on the strange yet compelling topic of false confessions by suspects.

8. Mind Hacks: A companion to a popular book on the inner workings of the brain, this blog focuses on neuroscience and psychology tricks that help illuminate what makes people tick. The blog’s two authors use witty and candid language to appeal to a wide audience.
Where to begin: Read BBC Future Column: Why is it So Hard to Give Good Directions? for a glimpse at why the basic task of giving directions is often more complicated than it appears.

Forensic Pathology

9. The Charles Smith Blog: Originally developed as an investigation linked to a disgraced former doctor, this blog has expanded to encompass cases involving flawed pathology and miscarriages of justice. The author is a former investigative reporter with the Toronto Star.
Where to begin: Check out Annie Dookhan: Part One: Crisis in the Crime Lab for an insightful take on examples of evidence contamination in crime labs.

10. Digital Pathology Blog: Aimed primarily at professional lab workers, this blog contains links to online seminars, news from the forensic pathology community and astute commentary. A surgical pathologist with a keen interest in digital pathology maintains the blog.
Where to begin: Check out Understanding Clinical Laboratory Outreach Marketing for some tips on how clinical labs can improve the standing and reputation of their brand among medical and health professionals.

Forensic Science and Criminal Justice

11. Crime Scene Training: Designed to provide instruction on the fundamentals of crime scene investigation, this blog delves into topics such as arson, blood at crime scenes, latent fingerprints and drug-related crimes. It encourages comments and feedback from readers.
Where to begin: Check out Footprints at Crime Scenes – CSIs Need to Tread Carefully for a discussion of how investigators can use various techniques to analyze footwear marks left at crime scenes.

12. CrimProf Blog: Edited by a professor at the University of San Diego School of Law, this blog relies on a small team of expert contributing editors to offer sharp commentary on issues involving criminal law. Popular topics include civil rights, policy, homeland security, eyewitness identification and interrogation.
Where to begin: Take a look at Luna & Cassell on Mandatory Minimums for a discourse on the controversial subject of mandatory minimum sentencing.

13. Expert Witness Blog: Operated by a group of practicing attorneys, this blog serves as a valuable resource for legal professionals interested in expert witnesses. Posts focus on testimony, research, trial strategy and expert witness marketing tactics.
Where to begin: Check out Rosalie Hamilton On Expert Witness Advertising Part 1 for a dialogue on a delicate issue in the realm of expert testimony and a common misperception in the field.

14. Grits for Breakfast: Known for its impeccable research and piercing commentary, this blog makes a strong case for criminal justice reform. Based in Texas, the author examines issues that reverberate throughout the entire criminal justice system.
Where to begin: Check out Law Enforcement Grants, DWI and the Fiscal Cliff for a review of how national budgetary concerns can affect federal grants to local law enforcement organizations.

15. The Truth About Forensic Science: Authored by an attorney and forensics expert, this blog is aimed at an audience of DUI lawyers and criminal defense attorneys. It offers a straightforward, compellingly written and educational examination of the technology and procedures that drive all types of forensic science.
Where to begin: Read How Maintaining Scientific Justice is Like Establishing and Maintaining a Path in the Darkest Jungle, an inspiring post about how the search for truth is at the heart of all scientific pursuits.

16. The Wrongful Convictions Blog: The editor of this blog is affiliated with the Center for the Global Study of Wrongful Conviction and the Ohio Innocence Project. Its mission is to shed light on wrongful convictions in courts throughout the world.
Where to begin: Check out Executed Serial Killer’s DNA May Solve Cold Cases for a look at using biological evidence to probe unsolved cases.

General Forensic Science

17. Antipolygraph.org News: This blog keeps readers up to date on polygraphs, voice stress analyzers and other devices designed to detect lies. It has a largely skeptical view toward lie detectors.
Where to begin: Check out McClatchy Investigative Series on Polygraph Screening, which recaps a report that challenges some long-held assumptions on polygraphs.

18. Ask a Forensic Artist: Written by a full-time forensic artist who works for a major law enforcement agency, this blog provides inside information on the fascinating world of forensic art. It frequently features interviews with professional forensic artists.
Where to begin: Check out Forensic Artist Q & A: Michelle Hinojosa for a conversation with an investigative specialist with a police unit.

19. Defrosting Cold Cases: This extremely well-written blog examines the mysteries surrounding historic and contemporary unsolved homicides. It is meticulously researched and presented with a literary flair.
Where to begin: Take a look at A Case Colder than Cold: Gary Vincent Murphy, which explores the puzzling case of a man who was murdered shortly after winning a bitterly fought custody battle.

20. Forensic Accounting Services, LLC: Steve’s Blog: The author of this blog has written several books on financial forensics and fraud investigations. He has conducted investigations involving millions of dollars in fraud. His favorite topics include fraud prevention, risk assessment, embezzlement and probate concerns.
Where to begin: Check out Cloud Computing, Cyber Crime, and Continued Increased Exposure, which sheds some light on the hot-button issue of identity theft.

21. The Forensic Group: Based in New Zealand, this blog tracks the latest forensic science news in that nation and elsewhere in the world. Topics include casework reviews, forensic palynology and the scientific method as it applies to solving crimes.
Where to begin: Read On Vein Patterns and Dead Pythons – Outdoor Body Recovery Course for a review of an educational seminar on how to investigate bodies that are discovered outdoors.

22. Forensic Science for Nurses: The mission of this blog is to provide a forum for communication about forensic nursing science. The primary target audience consists of professionals in the medical and health community.
Where to begin: Check out Crime Scene Processing for an important reminder that the use of proper equipment and supplies is a necessity when preserving evidence at a crime scene as part of an investigation.

23. Forensic Science News: Maintained by a veteran forensic scientist, this blog features penetrating commentary on forensic science news items. The author often draws on a wealth of experience he amassed in past cases as he discusses current events in the field.
Where to begin: Take a look at Institutional Bias Example, which explores the unfortunate circumstances surrounding a crime lab suspected of tampering with evidence.

24. The Writer’s Forensics Blog: Operated by a physician who is also an award-winning author of novels as well as nonfiction books, this blog tackles forensic science from the perspective of writers. It is a superb resource for established authors and aspiring authors of thrillers and crime mysteries.
Where to begin: Check out Be Careful What You Eat for a look at two strange but true stories about the ingestion of foreign substances that led to health problems and an untimely death.

25. Zeno’s Month: Authored by a forensic scientist at the Netherlands Forensic Institute, this blog chronicles the adventures of a working forensics specialist. It includes recaps of academic conferences, commentary on industry developments and informed takes on the use of technology in forensics. It sometimes features guest posts from other forensic scientists as well.
Where to begin: Check out November 2012 for a review of a busy month that included court testimony on image comparison, an industry conference in Rome and plans for a proficiency test on camera identification.

#1. Saint Leo University

Saint Leo University is a private Catholic liberal arts university founded in Florida in 1889. Offering online education since 1999, Saint Leo is a recognized leader in online learning with special distinction for military education. The school’s online programs combine top quality academics with extremely competitive tuition rates.

Online Criminal Justic programs:
Saint Leo University offers an accredited online B.A. in Criminal Justice and an online M.S. in Criminal Justice. The 120 credit B.A. program offers concentrations in Criminalistics and Homeland Security. The 36 credit M.S. program offers concentrations in Critical Incident Management and Forensic Science.

Accreditation:
Saint Leo University is regionally accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

#2. Liberty University

Liberty University is the largest private Christian university in the world, and is located Lynchburg, VA. The vast majority of Liberty’s more than 80,000 students take their courses through Liberty Online, the university’s online campus. Liberty Online combines high quality online education programs with an explicitly Christian worldview.

Online Criminal Justice Programs:
Liberty offers an accredited online B.S. in Criminal Justice and an online MBA with a Criminal Justice Concentration. The 120 credit-hour B.S. program provides theory and practical skills in criminology, law enforcement, and other areas of criminal justice, with specializations in Administration and Management, Forensics, Homeland Security, and Youth Corrections.

Accreditation: Liberty University is regionally accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

#3. Everest University

Everest University is a private university in Florida specializing in career-oriented online degree programs. Everest has been ranked among the top online schools by multiple publications and offers some of the most affordable tuition rates available.

Online Criminal Justice Programs:
Everest University offers accredited online Criminal Justice degrees at the Associates, Bachelor’s, and Master’s level. B.S. students can choose to specialize in areas such as drug control, gang activity, and management. The online M.S. program prepares experience criminal justice professionals for management and leadership positions, with specialized study offered in drug abuse and abuse counseling, juvenile justice, and corrections.

Accreditation:
Everest University is accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools.

#4. Kaplan University

Kaplan University is a private online university named in honor of Kaplan Test Prep founder Stanley H. Kaplan. Kaplan offers one of the largest selection of accredited online degrees and gives prospective students the opportunity to try out a class before enrolling.

Online Criminal Justice Programs:
Kaplan University offers multiple online degrees in Criminal Justice at every level from Associate’s to Master’s. Concentrations are available in computer crime, corrections, crime scene investigation, forensics, homeland security, juvenile justice, and law enforcement. A fast-track option from a Bachelor’s into a Master of Science degree in Criminal Justice is available, with specializations in corrections, global issues, law, leadership and executive management, and policing.

Accreditation:
Kaplan University is regionally accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

#5. Arizona State University

Founded in 1885, Arizona State University (ASU) is a world-class public university in Phoenix, AZ. ASU Online’s Criminology and Criminal Justice programs have earned an excellent reputation due to excellent teaching, high graduation rates, and low tuition costs.

Online Criminal Justice Programs:
ASU Online offers an accredited online B.S. in Justice Studies, an online B.S. in Criminology & Criminal Justice, and an online M.A. in Criminal Justice, each with multiple specializations. The B.Ss in Justice Studies prepares students to understand process of justice and social change. The B.S. in Criminology and Criminal Justice offers three areas of emphasis: criminology, courts, and pre-law. The Master of Arts degree is 33 credit hours and offers three areas of emphasis: law enforcement, probation, parole, and corrections.

Accreditation:
Arizona State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association.

#6. Regis University

Regis University is a private, Jesuit university in Denver, CO. Founded in 1877, Regis continues to be guided by the Jesuit principles of intellectual, spiritual, and social development. A pioneer in online education, Regis offers a number of top ranked online degree programs in criminal justice and other subjects.

Online Criminal Justice Programs:
Regis University offers an accredited online B.S. in Criminology and an online M.S. in Criminal Justice. The B.S. degree is a 128 credit-hour program designed for working adults to learn the intricacies of criminal psychology and behavior to prepare for employment in law enforcement, homeland security, and criminal justice. The M.S. degree takes 36 credit hours to complete and prepares students for higher levels of management and leadership in criminal justice fields.

Accreditation:
Regis University is regionally accredited by The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association.

#7. Bellevue University

Bellevue University is a private university in Bellevue, Nebraska, founded in 1965. Ranked one of the top online schools by US News & World Report, Bellevue offers a number of online degree programs at the undergraduate and graduate level.

Online Criminal Justice Programs:
Bellevue University offers accredited online B.S. degrees in Criminal Justice and Investigations, as well as an online M.S. in Justice Administration and Crime Management. All of the degrees prepare students for careers in the criminal justice system with an emphasis on contemporary social issues, ethical principles, and management and policy development.

Accreditation:
Bellevue University is regionally accredited by The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

#8. Drexel University

Drexel University is a private research university founded in 1891 by its namesake, Anthony J. Drexel. Located in Philadelphia, PA, Drexel is known for its cooperative education program, one of the best in the world. Drexel’s online degree programs have garnered numerous awards and distinctions for their quality and rigor.

Online Criminal Justice Programs:
Drexel offers an accredited online B.S. in Criminal Justice. This 182 credit-hour program provides a thorough grounding in criminology, as well as the history, policy, and administration of the criminal justice system, preparing students for multiple positions within the criminal justice system. The program also provides a strong foundation for computing in criminal justice settings.

Accreditation:
Drexel University is regionally accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools.

#9. Boston University

Boston University (BU) is a private research university in Boston, MA. The University has been ranked among the top 50 universities nationally by multiple publications, including US News & World Report. All of BU’s online degree programs are very highly regarded, but it’s online masters in Criminal Justice degree program is among the very best in the country.

Online Criminal Justice Programs:
Boston University offers an accredited online Master of Criminal Justice (MCJ) degree designed for working professionals looking to deepen their credentials while still working in the criminal justice field. The 30 credit-hour program prepares students for the sociological, theoretical, legal and practical aspects of a career in criminal justice, with courses taught by experienced faculty who have worked in law enforcement, corrections, and law.

Accreditation:
Boston University is regionally accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC).

#10. University of Massachusetts

The University of Massachusetts (UMass) is a public research university in Amherst, MA, with a history going back to 1863. UMass is consistently ranked among the top universities in the country and its official online division, UMassOnline, has earned numerous distinctions and awards for its distance learning programs.

Online Criminal Justice Programs:
UMassOnline offers an accredited online B..A degree-completion program with a concentration in Criminal Justice Studies, as well as an online M.A. in Criminal Justice. The B.A. completion program is designed for students who have completed core coursework or who have an associate’s degree and allows for the transfer of as much as 30 credits for work experience. The online M.A. in Criminal Justice is designed for students who are already working in criminal justice professions and who wish to specialize further or take on leadership roles with higher training requirements.

Accreditation:
The University of Massachusetts is regionally accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges.

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Throughout history, brave activists have taken a stance against authoritarian governments, fighting for issues like freedom of the press, religious tolerance and civil rights. Some have faced brutal torture for their advocacy, others have spent years in prison, and some have even died for their beliefs. Yet, whatever the details of their incarceration and suffering, the following political activists found that writing provided the perfect outlet for their creative, political and autobiographical works.

Here’s a look at 10 political activists who found a voice for their views from behind bars and managed to transmit them back to society outside.

10. Martin Luther King, Jr. (1929 – 1968)

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Few political activists have made as much of an impact as Martin Luther King, Jr. did during the American Civil Rights Movement.

In April 1963, King, along with other civil rights leaders and activists, commenced the Birmingham campaign, which was a series of sit-ins and pickets to protest segregation. On April 12, he was jailed in the Birmingham City Jail for violating an injunction.

A few days before, white religious leaders had gathered together and issued a statement questioning the appropriateness and timing of the protests. King read the statement during his eight days of imprisonment and gradually formulated a response.

He sent parts of the letter to movement headquarters, where they were compiled by Reverend Wyatt Walker. The letter justified the Civil Rights Movement and urged white churches and white moderates to do more to help. It was printed and reprinted across the United States, helping to drive the winds of change.

9. Fidel Castro (1926 – )

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In 1953, Fidel Castro was dissatisfied with the Cuban government and the country’s leader-by-force, General Fulgencio Batista. Castro led 123 men and women in an attack and attempted a coup, but it ended badly. The future Cuban leader was captured and narrowly escaped execution. He was sent to a civilian prison and, mercilessly, the army killed 80 of the rebels following the attack.

Castro was accused of organizing an armed uprising and was put on trial. However, to Batista’s dismay, Castro, who had trained and worked as a lawyer in Havana, used the trial to expose army torture and Batista’s tyrannical regime. Although many of the rebels were acquitted, Castro was sentenced to 15 years in prison. At the trial he gave a speech that was later titled “History Will Absolve Me,” outlining Cuba’s problems and proposing solutions.

Although Castro only spent two years in prison, he used that time to reconstruct his speech, sneaking it out in matchboxes for publication. The speech became a manifesto for the movement. Under pressure, Batista granted Castro amnesty and he was released on May 15, 1955.

8. Kim Dae-jung (1925 – 2009)

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Kim Dae-jung was a courageous South Korean leader and has been dubbed the “Nelson Mandela of Asia.” As a political activist, he dedicated his life and he sacrificed his freedom. Kim Dae-jung was imprisoned, released and imprisoned again. He even survived several attempts on his life. And in 1980, he was charged with treason and sentenced to death.

During his time in prison, Kim Dae-jung read books on history, philosophy, economics and literature. He also wrote letters to his family. These would later be collected and published as his Prison Writings. Kim Dae-jung’s sentence was reduced to life in prison, and later, with his sentence suspended, he moved to the US in exile.

Kim Dae-jung returned to South Korea in 1985 and was elected as president in 1997. It was the first time in Korean history that power had transitioned peacefully to a democratically chosen opposition party. Kim Dae-jung also wrote Mass Participatory Economy, Three-Stage Approach to Peaceful Reunification, and For a New Beginning.

7. Ba Maw (1893 – 1977)

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Ba Maw was a Burmese politician and lawyer during the British Colonial period. His calling as an activist received a kick-start in 1931, when he acted as the defense lawyer for Saya San, a man who had started a tax revolt that led to national rebellion against British rule. Despite the fact that Saya San was hanged for his crimes, Ba Maw, who had gained prominence during the trial, began to speak out for Burmese self-rule.

Ba Maw’s political career was pretty rocky, but it included a brief period during which he acted as the Burmese Head of State, after the country was granted independence. Unfortunately, the newly formed state didn’t manage to obtain diplomatic recognition, the army defected to the Allies, and Ba Maw fled to Japan.

Ba Maw was captured and was imprisoned without charge or trial from around 1965 to 1968. During this time, he smuggled out a memoir of his experiences throughout the war titled Breakthrough in Burma: Memoirs of a Revolution 1939-1946. It was published in 1968 by Yale University Press (New Haven).

6. Henri Alleg (1921 – )

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Born in London, and living in Paris at the time, French-Algerian journalist Henri Alleg headed off to Algeria at the age of 18. It was 1939, and Algeria was under French rule. Alleg became editor-in-chief, and later director, of Alger repúblicaini, an anti-colonial publication close to the Algerian communist movement.

In September 1955, the French government banned the paper, and many of Alleg’s colleagues were arrested. Alleg went into hiding, but he continued to submit pro-independence articles to a French communist journal – although a lot of these were never published due to censorship.

On June 12, 1957, Alleg was arrested for undermining the French government. He endured an entire month of brutal interrogation, which included burning, electric shocks, water boarding, and injections of “truth serum.” Yet Alleg never gave in to questioning and was eventually transferred to a military hospital and prison in Algiers. Here, he wrote about his torture experience and smuggled out his writing to his journalistic connections.

The book, titled La Question, inspired massive debates in France over the legitimacy of torture, and the French government had it censored. Nevertheless, thousands of copies continued to sell. Alleg eventually escaped from prison.

5. Mordechai Vanunu (1954 – )

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Mordechai Vanunu worked as a nuclear technician in Israel’s Negev Nuclear Research Center. Late in 1985, he was fired for his “left-wing” and “pro-Arab beliefs,” after he had participated in a pro-Arab rally. Vanunu spent time traveling and eventually made his way to London, where he sold his story, and the covert pictures he’d taken of the facility, to the Sunday Times. This was in direct violation of his non-disclosure agreement.

Mossad agent Cheryl Ben-Tov lured Vanunu to Rome, where he was drugged, kidnapped and taken back to Israel for a behind-closed-doors trial. Although no journalists were allowed inside, Vanunu wrote information on the palm of his hand and held it against the car window during transport for reporters to see. He was sentenced to 18 years in prison for treason and espionage.

Vanunu spent 11 of those years in solitary confinement, for fear he would reveal state secrets. During that time, he wrote a poem titled “I’m Your Spy,” which expresses his concerns over the development of weapons of mass destruction. Vanunu finished his sentence in 2004, but he has continued to call for the nuclear disarmament of Israel and even the dissolution of Israel as a Jewish state.

4. Mumia Abu-Jamal (1954 – )

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Mumia Abu-Jamal (born Wesley Cook) became involved with the US Black Panther party at the age of 15. He was suspended from high school for encouraging “black revolutionary student power,” and he even tried, unsuccessfully, to change the name of the school to Malcolm X High. He then worked as a radio reporter and part-time taxi driver.

On December 6, 1981, a Philadelphia police officer by the name of Daniel Faulkner stopped a car that was owned by Abu-Jamal’s brother, William Cook, in traffic. Abu-Jamal, who was parked across the street in his taxi, ran over, there was an exchange of fire, Abu-Jamal was wounded, and Faulkner was killed.

Abu-Jamal was convicted of first-degree murder and sentenced to death, although this was eventually reduced to life in prison without parole. Throughout his time in prison, Abu-Jamal has written extensively about the prison system and the death penalty. His works include Live from Death Row, We Want Freedom: A Life in the Black Panther Party, All Things Censored, and Death Blossoms: Reflections from a Prisoner of Conscience.

3. Voltaire (1694 – 1778)

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Although Voltaire (whose real name was Francois Marie Arouet) is well known for his philosophical thoughts and writings, less people are aware that he was a political activist.

Although he studied law, Voltaire soon chose to become a playwright instead. His intense criticism of politics and religion, written in scathing satire, infuriated the French government in 1717, and he was arrested and imprisoned in the Bastille, where he spent close to a year.

Whilst imprisoned, Voltaire wrote his play Oedipe, which became his first theatrical success. His time in the Bastille did not cure him of his satirical wit, nor did it keep him from insulting the politics and religious establishments of the day. And because of this, Voltaire was forced to leave France to avoid further imprisonment and spent time in both England and Germany.

2. Jean Genet (1910 – 1986)

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By the age of ten, Jean Genet had earned a reputation as a thief. He continued down this path, becoming a criminal and a vagrant, and was constantly in and out of correctional facilities.

After serving time in the army, stationed in Morocco, Algeria and Syria, and traveling around Spain and France, Genet became very sympathetic towards the plight of North African and Arabic people. However, Genet kept stealing and he was incarcerated again in 1941. This time, Genet dedicated his time to writing a book called Lady of the Flowers.

Genet’s early work is characterized by a pointed undermining of typical moral values, finding beauty in evil and exploring homosexuality. Genet became politically active in the 1960s and worked to draw attention to the poor living conditions of immigrants in France. He gave lectures in the US at the invitation of the Black Panthers, protested police brutality against Algerians, and offered an account of the massacre of Palestinians at Sabra and Shatila in Beirut.

1. Nelson Mandela (1918 – )

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Nelson Mandela’s political tenacity was severely put to the test when he was arrested on August 5, 1962. Mandela had spent the previous year leading a guerrilla campaign against the Apartheid government of South Africa. He was sentenced to life in prison for crimes of sabotage and was imprisoned on Robben Island.

During his first 18 years of imprisonment, Mandela was only allowed one visitor and received just one letter every six months. He was also required to do hard labor in a lime quarry. Despite this, however, he maintained his composure and became one of the most well-known and influential black leaders in South Africa.

Eventually, Mandela was transferred to Pollsmoor Prison and then, six years later, to Victor Verster Prison. Mandela’s autobiography, Long Walk to Freedom, was written in secrecy during his imprisonment. It was published in 1994, four years after his release. On May 10, 1994, he became the first black president of South Africa.

Bonus: Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn (1918 – 2008)

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Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn grew up in Russia, studied mathematics, and fought for the Red Army during WWII. However, during this time, he began to have doubts about the Soviet government’s morality. When he wrote to a friend and criticized Joseph Stalin, Solzhenitsyn was arrested and charged with producing anti-Soviet propaganda and for “founding a hostile organization.”

Solzhenitsyn was sentenced to eight years of forced labor and sent to various work camps, including one in the town of Ekibastuz, Kazakhstan. Here, he began to write on tiny scraps of paper, which he would destroy after memorizing what he’d written.

After his release, Solzhenitsyn continued to write, and he eventually published One Day in the Life of Ivan Denisovich, exposing the truth about the Soviet labor camp system.

When you have a criminal justice degree, there are plenty of ways to live out your dream of making an impact on the law enforcement or judicial system. There are a variety of careers that you can pursue that relate to the study of criminal justice. One of the greatest obstacles that you may face in pursuing a criminal justice degree is simply narrowing down your options. It can be very difficult to choose amongst the highly attractive careers that you can choose when you obtain a criminal justice degree. Here are some of the career options that also relate to the study of criminal justice.

Lawyer

There is a good number of law students who have a criminal justice degree in their background. When you have a background in criminal justice, you already have a strong understanding of how the law enforcement and judicial systems work together. This type of knowledge can be very helpful, especially if you want to become a prosecutor of public defender.

State Law Enforcement

It is recommended that you pursue this type of degree if you plan on eventually becoming a police officer. You can become a county sheriff or a deputy when you have a criminal justice degree. When you are a deputy, your job is to protect the citizens of your local community. You will have the power to make arrests in your community. You will also be able to make police reports, and you may be called upon to offer testimony in court. Your salary in this career field will depend on the funding that your local law enforcement agency receives in the community.

Correctional Officers

As a correctional officer, you will work in the federal prison system. You may also choose to specialize as a juvenile correctional officer. Your responsibility is to oversee the inmates who have been detained in the prison system. You may also need to oversee individuals who are currently awaiting trial. Your main task is to “keep the peace” and ensure that no inmate attempts to escape from the jail. You will also ensure that the inmates adhere to high standards of conduct and do not misbehave. Filing reports on the inmates may be one of your regular duties. One of the most important tasks that correctional officers do is to report on the good behavior of inmates. If an inmate has a record of good behavior, then he or she may be released from jail at an earlier date.

Judicial System

You may have a dream of eventually becoming a court clerk or clerk to a judge. When you work in the judicial system, you have an important role in the trials of people who have been convicted of crimes. You will need to file all of the documents that are submitted to you. Becoming a bailiff is another option that you have if you decide to pursue a criminal justice degree. A bailiff ensures that court proceedings are not disrupted, and they also escort prisoners during proceedings.

If crime investigation shows and juried trials fascinate you, then you may be the right person for a career in criminal justice. You may be a perfect match for this type of career. Someone who enjoys researching crime scenes and wants to learn more about criminal profiling will succeed in a criminal justice career. There are so many different types of careers that one can pursue with this type of degree. There are also different degree programs that are available and can be tailored to your ultimate career goals.

Certificate Programs

If you don’t have a couple of years to devote to an associate’s program, then you may want to obtain a certificate in criminal justice. A certificate can allow you to pursue a very specific niche of criminal justice. You may learn how to do fingerprints, or you may learn how to do crime scene photography. It is a good idea to pursue a certificate if you want to work in a part-time job.

Associate’s Degree in Criminal Justice

To pursue an associate’s degree in criminal justice, you can expect to take two years to complete the program. You will be able to study areas of criminal justice such as psychology and sociology. You will also be able to transfer the credits that you have earned from an associate’s degree into a bachelor’s degree program. This is one of the main reasons that people will begin in pursuing an associate’s degree in criminal justice.

Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice

A bachelor’s degree gives you the ability to pursue a position as s police officer. You will be provided an in-depth education about the functioning of the law enforcement system in society. You will also be able to learn about the factors that cause people to enter into a criminal lifestyle. You will learn how issues like poverty influence people in low-income parts of the country. One of the other benefits of pursuing a degree in criminal justice is that you can learn more about forensic science. People who want to become forensic scientists may also want to major in criminal justice.

Choosing a Specialty

You may want to choose a specialized field of study while you pursue a degree in criminal justice. A minor in psychology can be helpful if you plan on becoming a police officer. You can learn how people react when they are arrested. You can also learn what causes people to flee the scene of an accident. You may also want to pursue a minor in forensic science. Understanding the methods that are used for gathering evidence can give you an edge if you are involved in a trial. You may even want to pursue a minor in legal writing if you are thinking about eventually obtaining your law degree. People with criminal justice backgrounds will typically enter the legal field after they realize the different ways that laws can impact criminals in an unfair fashion. People may wish to amend these laws.

The benefit of pursuing a criminal justice degree is that your internship opportunities are virtually endless. Because you have a knowledge of court procedure, police methodology and forensic psychology, you can apply this knowledge in a variety of positions. The FBI, Department of Homeland Security and Federal Bureau of Prisons are just a few of the government agencies that offer excellent internship programs for those who are pursuing criminal justice degrees.

Work for Federal Law Enforcement

If you decide to pursue an internship within federal law enforcement, then you can find internships with the Department of Justice, the CIA, the United States Secret Service and the FBI. These are the most popular departments that offer internship programs. The internship programs are usually full-time and last for eight to twelve weeks. You will probably work in Washington, D.C. if you decide to pursue one of these internships. You can request whether a department like the FBI has a local branch that you can intern at during the semester. Since most of these internship programs are unpaid, it can be beneficial for you to cut down on the cost of housing by taking on a local internship opportunity.

Work for State Law Enforcement

State police departments will usually offer internship opportunities to students who are in their final years of completing a criminal justice program. You may also be able to find internship programs at specialty police departments, such as a highway patrol department or university police department.

Work for City Police Departments

When you intern for a local police department, the major benefit is that you will gain tremendous experience. These departments are often willing to take on many interns during the school year and summer. They are often overloaded with too much work, so they can provide valuable work opportunities to students.

Apply Early

If you do want to apply for an internship program, you should always try to apply as early as possible. The deadlines for internship programs will vary, so it is important for you to begin organizing your application as soon as you find internships that interest you. You may also need to obtain a letter of reference from one of your professors. You should request a letter of reference from one of your professors as soon as you make your list of internship programs.

Prepare for the Interview

The interview is often the most important part of the application process for internships. The interviewee wants to make sure that your personality will mesh well with the personalities of workers in the office. He or she may see that you are a highly qualified individual, but he or she will want to make sure that you have a positive attitude and bring good energy to the office.

Impress Your Supervisor

When you do finally land an internship that you want, you should do everything in your power to impress your supervisor. Try to always arrive early for your shift, and you should stay late if you have work to complete. You never know whether your internship opportunity will turn into a paid salary position.

When you decide to pursue a degree in criminal justice, you should try to prepare as much as possible for the burden of tuition and living expenses that you will face. Pursuing a degree in criminal justice is a very costly endeavor. You can end up with hundreds of thousands of dollars in debt if you do not adequately plan your education. It is essential for you to plan out your education and attempt to save as much money as possible. Applying for grants and scholarships before you attend college can help you cut down on the cost of a criminal justice degree program. Here are some major scholarships that you should consider.

Organization Scholarships

There are many criminal justice organizations that attempt to promote the highest standards of conduct and professionalism in the field of criminal justice. Organizations like The William L. Simon/Anderson Publishing Outstanding Student Paper Award are aimed at provoking students to think about current issues in the criminal justice system. A student will submit a paper in this contest, and he or she will receive a cash award for having the winning paper. There are also sheriffs’ associations that also try to cut down on the cost of education for students pursuing criminal justice degrees. The Sheriff’s Institute Scholarship program is a popular program that provides up to $500 to a student at each community college in New York.

Internship Programs

There are now federal agencies that are providing substantial scholarships to students who provide internship hours to the agency. This is beneficial, because a student can earn a substantial scholarship and experience during his or her time in college. The Federal Cyber Service: Scholarship for Service Program is one of the leading programs that provides students with a stipend of $8,000. Students will also have their lodging and food completely paid for during the program. Students will work in an information assurance position, and they must be studying a field that relates to criminal justice, technology or science.

Minority Scholarships

If you are the member of a group that has been underrepresented in the law enforcement or judicial fields, then you may be able to receive a scholarship for pursuing a criminal justice degree. The Women in Federal Law Enforcement organization provides scholarships to women who plan on pursuing a career in law enforcement. A woman must be recommended by a member of the WIFLE organization. The winning applicants will receive up to $1,500 to put toward their education. The Out to Protect organization is another one that provides scholarships to underrepresented individuals in law enforcement. This organization provides scholarships for people who identify as bisexual, lesbian or gay members of society. Not only do individuals receive a scholarship from this organization, but they will also be paired with a mentor from a law enforcement agency. The goal of this program is to provide positive influences in the lives of individuals who want to enter law enforcement and identify as homosexual.