The Beggars Brotherhood

Download or read book The Fence written by Darrell J. Steffensmeier and published by Rowman & Littlefield. This book was released on 1986 with total page 312 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: This book is based on the experiences of a dealer in stolen goods (alias 'Sam Goodman'), whose history serves as a model for understanding the role that fences play in today's society. Steffensmeier provides a detailed analysis of how a fence develops relationships with thieves, customers, and other fences, how prices are set and negotiated, the profits derived, and the skills required for the job, and the meaning and rewards of fencing. Steffensmeier relates the potential consequences: the events surrounding Sam's eventual arrest and conviction for receiving stolen property. Sociologists, criminologists, law enforcement officers, and public policy makers will find this an book enlightening and engaging portrayal of the criminal career.