John Leverso is an Assistant Professor at the University of Cincinnati in the School of Criminal Justice.

I am currently an Assistant Professor at the University of Cincinnati in the School of Criminal Jusrice. My research combines sociological and criminological perspectives to comprehensively investigate the social organization of the urban street gang. Not only investigating crime and delinquency, but also gang group processes and dynamics, de-escalation of disputes, and street gang changes over time with a focus on race/ethnicity, gender, and the digital street. In addition, I examine the later-in-life consequences of justice involvement, focusing on disadvantaged youth and people of color. When conducting research I believe the question should drive the method of inquiry used. In the course of my research I have used quantitative statistical techniques such as regression, event history and network analysis, as well as qualitative methods such as life history interviews and content analysis of social media data.

I completed my PhD in Sociology at the University of Washington in 2020. For more information on my unique educational journey see the University of Washington Sociology Matters article below. I teach courses related to criminology and both quantitative and qualitative methods. Previously I have taught courses on Race and the Criminal Justice System, Criminology, Urban Street Gangs, and Social Statistics. Currently I’m teaching the sociology of the urban street gang, social statistics, and graduate level qualitative methods. I am a native of Chicago, Illinois and an avid runner, I participate in 5K charity events and recently finished a 5K leg of the OKC Memorial Marathon in a relay team. I enjoy spending my free time with my family and two young kids who keep me in shape for my running.