The book attempts to explain causative factors and reasons behind such events as the actions by Federal agents against the Branch Davidians at Waco, TX, in April 1993 and against the Randy Weaver family at Ruby Ridge, ID, a year earlier. The volume presents the background of some of the major figures in the events at Waco; analyzes the procurement of the warrant to search the Branch Davidian compound; details the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms assault on the compound; examines the siege and the FBI's tactics; analyzes self-examinations by the Departments of Treasury and Justice; and looks at the criminal prosecution of the Branch Davidians, Congressional hearings into Waco, and the role of the news media. Specific solutions are provided to specific problems in Federal law enforcement, as well as broader reforms to prevent the recurrence of incidents such as Waco. Notes, appendixes, bibliography, index