To apply the shopkeeper's privilege, what is expected of the shopkeeper?

The shopkeeper's privilege allows merchants to detain a suspected shoplifter without facing liability for false imprisonment, provided certain conditions are met. The most critical requirement is that the detention must be conducted in a reasonable manner. This means that the shopkeeper can only detain a suspected shoplifter for a brief period and only for the time necessary to investigate the situation. The detention must not exceed what is necessary to ascertain whether the individual has stolen merchandise.

Conducting the detention in a reasonable manner includes factors like the method of detention (it should not be excessively forceful or humiliating), the duration of the detention (should be limited), and the place where the detention occurs (should ideally be in a private area of the store). Reasonableness is assessed by considering the circumstances and ensuring that the shopkeeper's actions are justifiable in relation to the suspicion of theft.

The other options do not align with the established legal requirements for applying the shopkeeper's privilege. Immediate action without investigation may lead to wrongful detentions. Continuously detaining someone until the police arrive could be seen as excessive and unreasonable. Using physical force, unless absolutely necessary for self-defense or to prevent harm, could also cross the line into unlawful behavior. Thus, the emphasis