This law section addresses liability and enforcement related to shoplifting in Virginia. It establishes civil liability for those convicted of theft, outlines detention rights for suspected shoplifters, and prohibits devices used to evade electronic theft detection, with penalties for violations.
You may be held civilly liable to the store owner for the value of the stolen goods and related legal costs, with costs limited to $250 excluding the value of the goods.
Yes, if they have probable cause, they can detain the individual for up to one hour until law enforcement arrives.
Yes, manufacturing, selling, or possessing devices designed to shield merchandise from electronic alarms is illegal and punishable as a Class 1 misdemeanor.
Violating this law is classified as a Class 1 misdemeanor, which can result in criminal charges and penalties.