The Patriot Act: Issues and Controversies

The book focuses on the aspects that have made the Patriot Act (PA) a topic of great concern, especially since the Patriot Act has lost much of its 'power' due to judicial intervention. The life or death of the Act depends upon the behavior of terrorists. The more time that elapses between 9/11 and any new predatory attack will likely mean that the Act will continue to be 'defanged and declawed' until it is completely acceptable by all civil liberties groups. Unequivocally, the Act will lose most of its punch and it depends upon which side of the aisle one agrees with whether that is good or not. Among the many topics examined include the United States before 9/11; the changes brought about by 9/11; the Foreign Intelligence Service Act of 1978; psychological underpinnings; titles of the Patriot Act; legislative acts similar in scope to the Patriot Act; enhancing domestic security against terrorism; enhanced surveillance procedures; protecting the border; removing obstacles to investigating terrorism; providing for victims of terrorism and public safety; and increased information sharing for critical infrastructure protection. The final portion of the text offers a discussion on strengthening the criminal laws against terrorism; improving intelligence; reviewing the Department of Justice; authorization of funds for DEA police training in South and Central Asia; grant programs for state and local domestic preparedness support; amendments concerning the Bill of Rights and the law; and the multicultural issues that targets immigration. A Glossary of Statutes and Laws affected by the Patriot Act concludes the book, thereby enhancing the knowledge concerning the Patriot Act. The book will appeal to undergraduate and/or graduate students in criminal justice, criminology, and law school.