An incident caught on video outside a downtown Winners store is raising questions about the role of loss prevention officers at retail stores and how much physical force should be used, if any, to apprehend shoplifting suspects. , located near Yonge and College streets, Stephlynn Tee said she spotted a group of three individuals restraining a young man.
In the video, which Tee shared on social media, three people dressed in regular clothes can be seen apprehending a man outside the store, holding his arms and covering his eyes.A security guard can be heard on camera saying that the man was “shoplifting” and that he is “under arrest.” “Many stores have policies in place where loss prevention isn’t allowed to physically touch anyone,” she added.
In the code of conduct outlined in the Private Security and Investigative Services Act, loss prevention officers in Ontario do not need to wear a uniform and can use equipment, such as handcuffs. They are also required to carry their licence with them while on duty and show their licence to anyone who asks to see it, including members of the public.