Alberta Basic Security Training (ABST) Practice Exam 2025

In a retail setting, which of the following is true about the arrest of individuals for theft?

1. You cannot arrest if they haven't exited the store

2. You can arrest anyone acting suspiciously

3. You may arrest individuals seen concealing items

4. Only the police can make arrests

The correct answer is: You may arrest individuals seen concealing items

The correct choice emphasizes the authority that security personnel have in a retail environment when it comes to apprehending individuals for theft. When security personnel observe an individual actively concealing items that are not paid for, they have reasonable grounds to believe that a theft is being committed. This action of concealment is a critical factor because it demonstrates intent to steal, and therefore, security personnel can act to prevent the theft from occurring. In many jurisdictions, including Alberta, the law allows store employees and security staff to perform a citizen's arrest when they witness a theft in progress, particularly when they see someone attempting to conceal merchandise. This is based on the principle of protecting property and apprehending offenders to stop the loss to the store. In the other options, the stipulation about needing to see someone exit the store before an arrest can be made is not accurate because an arrest can be made when concealment is observed. The idea that anyone acting suspiciously can be arrested could lead to unjustified apprehensions since suspicious behavior alone is not sufficient grounds for an arrest without further evidence. Lastly, while police do have the authority to make arrests, it is not true that only they can do so in the case of a retail theft occurring; trained security personnel also possess this authority