John Lea is a British left realist criminologist.
He has subsequently been visiting Professor at the Universities of Brighton, Leicester, Roehampton and Goldsmiths (University of London) His research interests include policing, organised crime, the historical development of crime and criminal justice institutions, the role of the private sector in criminal justice and the relationship between crime, war and security.
Lea was one of the key founders of the left realist approach alongside Jock Young, Roger Matthews, Richard Kinsey and Ian Taylor, His book with Jock Young, 'What is to be Done About Law and Order?'
This was followed by, (with Richard Kinsey and Jock Young) 'Losing the Fight Against Crime'(1986).
(presented at the BSC Conference, Plymouth University, July)