Melissa A. Smith, Ph.D., is an Assistant Professor of Sociology at the University of Oklahoma. Her research portfolio is centered on critical areas of criminal justice, including rural crime, policing, drug policy, and victimology. Dr. Smith's work is characterized by its direct relevance and practical application to the criminal justice system both within Oklahoma and across the nation. She holds a B.A. in Sociology from the University of Oklahoma, an M.A. in Criminal Justice Administration from the University of Central Oklahoma, and a Ph.D. in Criminal Justice from the University of New Haven.