Breaking Rank

Breaking Rank: A Top Cop's Exposé of the Dark Side of American Policing by Norm Stamper. This powerful memoir reveals the violent and secret world of domestic abuse that police officers must navigate, as well as their own involvement in perpetuating it. Stamper shares his personal account of a tumultuous event in 1999, where protests he was in charge of controlling turned violent. Stamper also exposes a troubling culture of racism, sexism, and homophobia within the police force, and explores how such prejudices can be addressed. He draws on lessons learned to make powerful arguments for drug decriminalization, abolition of the death penalty, and radically revised approaches to prostitution and gun control. Through his experiences, Stamper offers penetrating insights into the "blue wall of silence," police undercover work, and what it means to kill a man. A brave and pioneering public servant, Stamper's extraordinary life has been dedicated to the service of his community. This book is a thought-provoking exposé that sheds light on the darker side of American policing, and challenges readers to think critically about the issues at hand.