Social upheaval during the 1960's and 1970's resulted in a shifting of blame away from the criminal. New social mores, new legal attitudes, and altered judicial practices worked fundamental changes in the American approach to crime and punishment that resulted in keeping many offenders on the streets. However, the balance is shifting; lawmakers, judges, and other public officials are finally catching up with the public's growing intolerance of crime. Recent court decisions concerning the exclusionary rule, search and seizure, and the prosecution of organized crime are contributing to more effective law enforcement. Continuation of the fight against crime will require the restoration of an authentic jurisprudence that respects the needs of effective law enforcement; effective and realistic criminal laws and statutes; and effective law enforcement policies that aid in the identification, arrest, prosecution, and punishment of criminals. Public cooperation is also needed to make these new approaches and policies work. 21 notes and references.