Under §490.5(f), a detention under the shopkeeper's privilege must be:
Explanation
Penal Code §490.5(f)(3) permits detention in a reasonable manner and for a reasonable time to investigate ownership, request that a peace officer take custody, and surrender the person to the officer. Excessive duration, humiliating treatment, or detention beyond reasonable investigative scope creates civil liability. Mandatory handcuffing (c) and location restrictions (d) are not statutory; 24-hour detention (a) is dramatically beyond what is reasonable and would constitute false imprisonment.
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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