There are many many topics about this practice on the internet. Ill be brief:
-You paid for it, its in your bag and its yours, they dont have the right to search you. Only the police do and the store security if they have met all requirements to suspect shoplifting.
-You are not considered a shoplifter unless many requirements are filled, it varies by state so i cant be specific.By searching everyones bags and reciepts, it goes to say "Guilty until proven Innocent".
-Again, the people at the door dont have the right to search your bag, only security can if they've fulfilled all requirements to suspect shoplifting.
Fry's smokescreen statement on this, and the trolls who represent them, say that they do it to "Be precise about ringing people up and price accuracy". Great, but thats your responsibility, i didnt surrender my constitutional rights by walking into your store. You have the responsibility to hire qualified employees, use cameras integrated with price-scanning technology to be sure the cashier isnt in cahoots or he hasnt switched price tags.
It doesnt matter if your store is "Private property", that doesn't override civilian rights and privacy law. But to further this, go to the store and look for the "Private property" sign on the outside of the door. Chances are it aint there.
If "Private property" rules could override everything, then we'd all be in a mess.
Heres some links that discuss this issue, its very old and the laws havent changed:
http://www.danielcurran.com/08/no-you-cannot-check-my-receipt-and.php
(He makes a good point: You're consenting to a search without probable cause)
(Plus the best part: ""HEY! You have to show me your receipt!" he bellowed, highlighter raised in anger)
Again here, with full credit to him:
"Here's the deal, if you think I stole something, detain me. Otherwise, appreciate the fact that I just put a few dollars towards your paycheck and leave me alone. No, I will not consent to a search of my private, personal property in order to justify your job. If I signed a contract (CostCo) then yes, I am obliged to let you see my receipt. If you touch me, it's assault. If you detain me, it's illegal detainment and probably illegal search and seizure because when I take your store to court there's one little thing they won't be able to prove - probable cause. People, don't let corporations chip away at your civil liberties. Stand up for your rights. Just say "No, Thank You.""
Heres the official response: "Bag checking and reciept checking is Voluntary"
http://www.crimedoctor.com/loss_prevention_3.htm
Im not a shoplifter, I just have a problem with attempting to violate civil liberties. Best buy does this too.
They also have very poor customer service. Go in there and ask about something technical, you'll have 3 asians wearing suits and smiling either run away from you or try to sell you a cell-phone plan that you really dont need.
0 comments