Discusses the emerging role of microcomputer systems in criminal justice agencies (CJ). Focuses on the four types of microcomputers in existence today. Several general applications now found in CJ agencies are discussed in detail. Database management systems are the most visible application and an entire chapter is devoted to it, in addition to describing seven specific applications. Electronic Bulletin Board Systems (BBS) and advanced applications on microcomputers, including expert systems are also discussed. A final chapter presents conclusions on the impact of microcomputers in CJ agencies.

Policing is a consuming profession with incredibly high elements of stress. Research suggests that police divorce rates are more than double the national average of ordinary marriages. The spouse's fear of physical danger, adjusting to shift work, transfers and changes in the officers' personality are only a few of the contributing factors, but the most crucial problem is the breakdown of communication within the relationship. From the beginning of the officers' careers they are trained to control their emotions, and thus are accused of being cold-hearted. Spouses agree that law enforcement officers grapple with the real-life horrors on the job and that the bitter belief that 'cops don't cry' is sadly untrue.