Victims of crime are receiving increasing amounts of attention from policy makers, agencies of the criminal justice system and researchers. This text offers a much-needed overview of theory and practice in the topical area of crime, victimization and criminal justice policy. Spalek explores the impact of crime upon victims, looks at the establishment of victim initiatives and pushes debates in the area forward. Engagingly presented with case studies and questions drawn from recent high-profile cases, such as the Potters Bar rail disaster and the Oklahoma City bombing. This comprehensive textbook is essential reading for anyone interested in victims or victimology.