This book aims to challenge current thinking about serious youth violence and gangs, and their racialisation by the media and the police. Written by an expert with over 14 years' experience in the field, it brings together research, theory and practice to influence policy. Placing gangs and urban violence in a broader social and political economic context, it argues that government-led policy and associated funding for anti-gangs work is counter-productive. It highlights how the street gang label is unfairly linked by both the news-media and police to black (and urban) youth street-based lifestyles/cultures and friendship groups, leading to the further criminalisation of innocent black youth via police targeting. The book is primarily aimed at practitioners, policy makers, academics as well as those community-minded individuals concerned about youth violence and social justice.

About the Author
Anthony Gunter is a Principal Lecturer in Criminology and Programme Leader for the BA (Hons) Criminology and Law degree programme at the University of East London. Prior to his career in academia Anthony worked for over 14 years in both South and East London, within a variety of community settings, as a detached community and youth worker and Project / Area Manager.

Reviews
"A colossus of a book..... should become the handbook for anyone attempting to address issues around young people and violence." Charlie Parker, Hiphology Ltd
"A much needed and valuable addition to the literature on youth 'gangs', written in a sensitive manner informed by the author's extensive and close up research.,. A must read for anyone interested in youth crime or in youth issues more generally." Tracy Shildrick, University of Leeds



Book Information
ISBN 9781447322870
Author Anthony Gunter
Format Paperback
Page Count 288
Imprint Policy Press
Publisher Policy Press