Washington § 9A.16.080 - Action for being detained on mercantile establishment premises for investigation — "Reasonable grounds" as defense.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 9A.16.080 — Action for being detained on mercantile establishment premises for investigation — "Reasonable grounds" as defense., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 9A.16.080. Action for being detained on mercantile establishment premises for investigation — "Reasonable grounds" as defense.

In any criminal action brought by reason of any person having been detained on or in the immediate vicinity of the premises of a mercantile establishment for the purpose of investigation or questioning as to the ownership of any merchandise, it shall be a defense of such action that the person was detained in a reasonable manner and for not more than a reasonable time to permit such investigation or questioning by a peace officer, by the owner of the mercantile establishment, or by the owner's authorized employee or agent, and that such peace officer, owner, employee, or agent had reasonable grounds to believe that the person so detained was committing or attempting to commit theft or shoplifting on such premises of such merchandise. As used in this section, "reasonable grounds" shall include, but not be limited to, knowledge that a person has concealed possession of unpurchased merchandise of a mercantile establishment, and a "reasonable time" shall mean the time necessary to permit the person detained to make a statement or to refuse to make a statement, and the time necessary to examine employees and records of the mercantile establishment relative to the ownership of the merchandise.
[ 1975 1st ex.s. c 260 s 9A.16.080.]

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

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Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 9A.16.080

What does Revised Code of Washington § 9A.16.080 cover?

Section 9A.16.080 ("Action for being detained on mercantile establishment premises for investigation — "Reasonable grounds" as defense.") is part of the Revised Code of Washington, the codified statutory law of Washington. 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 Washington § 9A.16.080?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 9A.16.080" (Washington). 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 Washington law?

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

How does Washington § 9A.16.080 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Washington can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

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