Alaska § 11.46.230 - Reasonable detention as defense.
Full text of Alaska Alaska Statutes § 11.46.230 — Reasonable detention as defense., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 11.46.230. Reasonable detention as defense.
(a) In a civil or criminal action upon the complaint of a person who has been detained in or in the immediate vicinity of a commercial establishment for the purpose of investigation or questioning as to the ownership of merchandise, it is a defense that (1) the person was detained in a reasonable manner and for not more than a reasonable time to permit investigation or questioning by a peace officer or by the owner of the commercial establishment or the owner's agent; and
(2) the peace officer, owner, or owner's agent had probable cause to believe that the person detained was committing or attempting to commit concealment of merchandise or theft from the commercial establishment.
(b) As used in this section, “reasonable time” means the time necessary to permit the person detained to make a statement or refuse to make a statement, and any additional time necessary to examine employees and records of the commercial establishment relative to the ownership of the merchandise.
Source: official Alaska text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Alaska § 11.46.230
What does Alaska Statutes § 11.46.230 cover?
Section 11.46.230 ("Reasonable detention as defense.") is part of the Alaska Statutes, the codified statutory law of Alaska. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Alaska § 11.46.230?
A common citation format is "Alaska Statutes § 11.46.230" (Alaska). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Alaska law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Alaska official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Alaska attorney.
How does Alaska § 11.46.230 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Alaska can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Alaska.