He received his B.A. from Alabama State University, and his M.A. and Ph.D. in sociology from Washington State University. Dr. Altheimer is actively engaged in scholarly research and has published articles in a variety of journals. His current research seeks to expand knowledge of dispute-related, and retaliatory urban violence. He also works as a research partner with local law enforcement agencies addressing urban violence. Dr. Altheimer is currently serving as the co-principal investigator on a Bureau of Justice Assistance grant that seeks to reduce gun violence in the city of Rochester, NY. He was also awarded the 2014 W.E.B Dubious Fellowship by the National Institute of Justice.