North Dakota § 51-21-03 - Detention of suspect - Procedure
Full text of North Dakota North Dakota Century Code § 51-21-03 — Detention of suspect - Procedure, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 51-21-03. Detention of suspect - Procedure
Any peace officer or merchant who reasonably believes that a person has committed, or is in the process of committing, theft may detain such person, on or off the premises of a retail mercantile establishment, in a reasonable manner and for a reasonable length of time for all or any of the following purposes: 1. To require the person to identify oneself. 2. To verify such identification. 3. To determine whether such person has in the person's possession unpurchased merchandise and, if so, to recover such merchandise. 4. To inform a peace officer of the detention of the person and surrender custody of that person to a peace officer. 5. In the case of a minor, to inform a peace officer, the parents, guardian, or other private person interested in the welfare of that minor of this detention and to surrender custody of said minor to the person informed.
Source: official North Dakota text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About North Dakota § 51-21-03
What does North Dakota Century Code § 51-21-03 cover?
Section 51-21-03 ("Detention of suspect - Procedure") is part of the North Dakota Century Code, the codified statutory law of North Dakota. 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 North Dakota § 51-21-03?
A common citation format is "North Dakota Century Code § 51-21-03" (North Dakota). 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 North Dakota law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the North Dakota official source linked on this page or consult a licensed North Dakota attorney.
How does North Dakota § 51-21-03 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in North Dakota 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 North Dakota.