In a study published in the most recent issue of Sociometrics, Dr. J. Heith Copes of the Department of Justice Sciences was identified as one of the “Top 100” most prolific and most cited criminologists in the world over the period 2009-2013.

In “Measuring the quantity and quality of scholarly productivity in criminology: A test of three integrated models,” author Glen Waters developed and evaluated integrated (quantity and quality) models of scholarly productivity. Using the models, Dr. Copes was identified as among the most cited criminologists in the world. His work in the areas of criminal decision making, identity and crime, neutralization theory, and qualitative research methods has appeared in the top journals in the fields of criminology, criminal justice, and sociology. He is also the author of several books, including a major study of identity thieves.

Dr. Copes joined the UAB faculty in 2001 and is currently professor of criminal justice and sociology, and director of the criminal justice graduate program. He earned his PhD in sociology from the University of Tennessee.