Georgia § 51-7-61 - Activation of antishoplifting device as constituting probable cause for detention; notice of such device to be posted.
Full text of Georgia Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 51-7-61 — Activation of antishoplifting device as constituting probable cause for detention; notice of such device to be posted., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 51-7-61. Activation of antishoplifting device as constituting probable cause for detention; notice of such device to be posted.
As used in this Code section, the term "antishoplifting or inventory control device" means a mechanism or other device designed and operated for the purpose of detecting the removal of specially marked or tagged merchandise from a mercantile establishment or similar enclosure or from a protected area within such an enclosure. In the case of a mercantile establishment utilizing an antishoplifting or inventory control device, the automatic activation of the device as a result of a person exiting the establishment or a protected area within the establishment shall constitute reasonable cause for the detention of the person so exiting by the owner or operator of the establishment or by an agent or employee of the owner or operator. Each detention shall be made only in a reasonable manner and only for a reasonable period of time sufficient for any inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the activation of the device. This Code section shall apply only with respect to mercantile establishments in which a notice has been posted in a clear and visible manner advising patrons of the establishment that an antishoplifting or inventory control device is being utilized in the establishment. (Ga. L. 1979, p. 762, § 1.) Cross references. - Shoplifting, § 16-8-14 . Code Commission notes. - Pursuant to Code Section 28-9-5, in 2000, a colon was deleted following "the term" in subsection (a).
Source: official Georgia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Georgia § 51-7-61
What does Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 51-7-61 cover?
Section 51-7-61 ("Activation of antishoplifting device as constituting probable cause for detention; notice of such device to be posted.") is part of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, the codified statutory law of Georgia. 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 Georgia § 51-7-61?
A common citation format is "Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 51-7-61" (Georgia). 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 Georgia law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Georgia official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Georgia attorney.
How does Georgia § 51-7-61 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Georgia 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 Georgia.