Penal Code §490.5(f) ('shopkeeper's privilege') allows a merchant or merchant's agent (including a security guard) to:
Explanation
Penal Code §490.5(f)(2) gives merchants (and employees/agents, including security) a limited privilege to detain a person they have probable cause to believe unlawfully took merchandise. The detention must be in a reasonable manner and last no longer than reasonably necessary to investigate ownership and to await a peace officer. Excessive force (a), strip searches (c), and prosecutorial charging (d, which is the DA's role) exceed the privilege and expose the guard and merchant to civil liability for false imprisonment, battery, or civil-rights violations.
Law Reference: Cal. Penal Code §490.5(f)This topic, taught in full in the California Guard Card (BSIS Security Guard) guide. California Guard Card — Complete Study Guide (2026) — PDF + EPUB, $9.99 · 14-day refund →
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