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Store Detectives' Handbook

NCJ Number
92230
Author(s)
P H Jones; D E Byrne
Date Published
1983
Length
78 pages
Annotation
Retail store security staff are provided a quick reference handbook outlining the general responsibilities, and legal limitations impinging on these responsibilities, of store detectives in Great Britain.
Abstract
The handbook outlines the general aims of the security task as well as the basic responsibilities of management. It covers the legal factors surrounding arrest and theft, outlining selected sections of the Theft Act 1968 as they apply to retail stores. The handbook also points out the detectives' tasks regarding investigations of incidents, interrogation of suspects, and collection and presentation of evidence. It explains how the Judges' Rules affects the collection and acceptance of evidence by the court. Also explained is the difference between a court and an industrial tribunal and their demands regarding presentation of evidence. Furthermore the detectives' responsibilities for keeping a notebook, taking witness statements, and report writing are covered. Finally, the handbook briefly outlines both police and court procedures once an arrest is made, and highlights those points at which a detective might be called upon for evidence. A subject index is provided.