Police Arrest for Trespassing After Discount Refusal at Ross
A customer approached the checkout at Ross and demanded a discount on merchandise. Store management refused, citing company policy, and asked the customer to leave the premises. The customer declined, arguing that her boyfriend works for the company and that she could not afford full price. She also asked the staff to hold the items until her boyfriend arrived at 7:00 p.m.
Police Intervention
Officers arrived and warned the customer that refusing to leave after a clear request constitutes “trespass after warning.” They explained that the arrest would be for trespassing, not for requesting a discount, stating, “You’re not going to get arrested for wanting a discount; you’re going to get arrested for trespass after warning.” The officers offered her the opportunity to leave voluntarily to avoid arrest, saying, “You can either leave or you’re going to leave in handcuffs and you’re going to go to jail for trespassing.” When asked for identification, the customer refused. The officers clarified that Miranda rights are not required for a trespassing arrest, noting, “There is no other solution. You can leave right now because you’re not under arrest.”
The Arrest
Store management confirmed its intent to press trespassing charges. Officers informed the customer that she was now detained, adding, “I’m letting you know you’re free to leave right now, but once they tell us that they want to prosecute, you’re going to be placed under arrest.” The customer resisted, leading to a physical struggle and additional warnings. Officers secured her, placed her in handcuffs, and transported her to Orange County Jail. The officer mentioned a $1,000 bond as part of the process.
Legal Mechanisms
“Trespass after warning” occurs when a property owner or manager asks an individual to leave; refusal makes the individual subject to arrest for trespassing. Arrest procedures require officers to verify the property owner’s intent to press charges, issue multiple warnings, and, if the individual continues to refuse, physically detain them. Resisting arrest—physically struggling or tensing against officers—can result in additional criminal charges.
Takeaways
- The customer demanded a discount and refused to leave when management denied it, citing her boyfriend’s employment and lack of funds.
- Police warned that refusing to leave after a clear request constitutes “trespass after warning,” which can lead to arrest.
- Officers clarified that Miranda rights are not required for a trespassing arrest and offered her the chance to leave voluntarily.
- When the customer continued to resist, including refusing to provide ID and physically struggling, officers placed her in handcuffs and detained her.
- The subject was transported to Orange County Jail with a $1,000 bond after store management confirmed intent to press trespassing charges.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'trespass after warning' mean in this context?
It is a legal process where a property owner asks someone to leave; if the person refuses, they can be arrested for trespassing. The warning satisfies the requirement that the individual had notice before law enforcement intervenes.
Why didn't the officers read Miranda rights before arresting the customer?
Miranda rights are required only when a suspect is in custody and subject to interrogation. A trespassing arrest does not involve custodial interrogation, so officers are not obligated to read the rights.
Does this page include the full transcript of the video?
Yes, the full transcript for this video is available on this page. Click 'Show transcript' in the sidebar to read it.
Helpful resources related to this video
If you want to practice or explore the concepts discussed in the video, these commonly used tools may help.
Links may be affiliate links. We only include resources that are genuinely relevant to the topic.