Legal Question in Civil Rights Law in California

profiling

I went to a music store to look for a cd. I was wearing a big jacket when I went into the store, and i noticed that the employees were following me around. A few minutes later, a security guard came up to me and aasked me to leave the store. When i asked why, they gave me no response. Is this considered profiling, and can they legally kick me out of the store for no reason at all?


Asked on 9/20/06, 9:13 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Robert F. Cohen Law Office of Robert F. Cohen

Re: profiling

If you were asked to leave because of your race or national origin, that would be illegal. If you were a suspected shoplifter because only shoplifters wear big jackets in the CD store, that would not be illegal. It all depends.

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Answered on 9/26/06, 5:08 pm
Terry A. Nelson Nelson & Lawless

Re: profiling

Of course a store can 'profile' what they think are thieves, and can refuse service to anyone. Dress and act appropriately to avoid similar problems in future. IF you had any evidence to indicate this was actually because of race or ethnic origin, or similar protected category, it would be different.

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Answered on 9/26/06, 7:27 pm


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