Nancy E. Marion is Chair and Professor of Political Science at the University of Akron. Her research areas largely revolve around the intersection of politics and criminal justice. She is the author of numerous articles and books that examine how politics affects criminal justice policy. Kimberly J. Hufgard is Associate Professor of Instruction in the Political Science Department at the University of Akron. Her research centers on human trafficking, exploring its complex intersections with media, policy, and societal impacts.