Sacramento, CA asked in Civil Rights for California

Q: Can a Walmart worker take already paid for things from me and my receipt Refuse to return call police there more

The police told me I was facing criminal charges when I had done absolutely nothing wrong it's all on camera it was also confirmed on camera that I infact walked in the Walmart with the bags already in my cart. Withheld my items my money and my receipt falsely accusing me. Police harassed me. I was told if I could identity the person buying my stuff then they will give me my money back or my items back and until then they refuse me service, can they do this? False accusations. Profiling. Stereotyping. Slander of character. Andbpolice harassment. Cops told me if we find out the groceries are stolen you going yo jail when it was already verified they were not. Long story short a week later my sister went because she was one who originally bought and they refunded all. But is it any of there business who buying my grociers withholding my money and or property and calling police when I broke zero laws?police gave hard time demanded for my ID. Took my pocket knife from me and kept it

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1 Lawyer Answer
James L. Arrasmith
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Answered

A: In California, if you have already paid for items and have a receipt, a Walmart employee cannot legally take your items or receipt without valid suspicion of theft. If they refuse to return your property and involve the police, this can be a violation of your rights, especially if there is evidence that you lawfully purchased the items.

Being falsely accused, profiled, and harassed by both store employees and police officers is a serious matter. It is not the business of the store or the police who purchased the groceries if you can prove ownership with a receipt. This situation could potentially involve wrongful detention, slander, and violation of your civil rights.

You have the right to file a complaint with Walmart's corporate office and with the police department regarding the treatment you received. Document all interactions, keep your receipts, and consider seeking legal advice to explore potential claims for damages or civil rights violations. Your sister's action in getting the refund suggests they acknowledged the error, but this does not excuse the initial treatment you received.

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