Utah § 76-6-603 - Detention of suspected violator by merchant -- Purposes.

Full text of Utah Utah Code § 76-6-603 — Detention of suspected violator by merchant -- Purposes., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 76-6-603. Detention of suspected violator by merchant -- Purposes.

76-6-603.  Detention of suspected violator by merchant -- Purposes.
(1) Any merchant who has probable cause to believe that a person has committed retail 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:
(a) to make reasonable inquiry as to whether such person has in his possession unpurchased merchandise and to make reasonable investigation of the ownership of such merchandise;
(b) to request identification;
(c) to verify such identification;
(d) to make a reasonable request of such person to place or keep in full view any merchandise such individual may have removed, or which the merchant has reason to believe he may have removed, from its place of display or elsewhere, whether for examination, purchase, or for any other reasonable purpose;
(e) to inform a peace officer of the detention of the person and surrender that person to the custody of a peace officer;
(f) 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 immediately, if possible, of this detention and to surrender custody of such minor to such person.
(2) A merchant may make a detention as permitted herein off the premises of a retail mercantile establishment only if such detention is pursuant to an immediate pursuit of such person.


Amended by Chapter 306, 2007 General Session

Source: official Utah text · Last verified 2026-08-27

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Frequently Asked Questions About Utah § 76-6-603

What does Utah Code § 76-6-603 cover?

Section 76-6-603 ("Detention of suspected violator by merchant -- Purposes.") is part of the Utah Code, the codified statutory law of Utah. 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 Utah § 76-6-603?

A common citation format is "Utah Code § 76-6-603" (Utah). 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 Utah law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Utah official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Utah attorney.

How does Utah § 76-6-603 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Utah 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 Utah.