Retail crime increased by 85% between 2019 and 2023
The government has announced proposed legal reforms aimed at giving businesses greater authority to detain individuals caught stealing.
Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith and Associate Justice Minister Nicole McKee outlined the measures, which are based on recommendations from the Ministerial Advisory Group for victims of retail crime.
Retail crime increased by 85% between 2019 and 2023, with theft-related victimisations rising by 91% during the same period. Goldsmith stated that current laws under the Crimes Act 1961 limit the ability of retailers and security guards to intervene when theft occurs, particularly when the value of stolen goods is under $1,000. He said that the law’s operation discourages immediate action against offenders.
The proposed changes would amend the Crimes Act to allow citizens to intervene to stop any offence under the act at any time of the day. Under the reforms, a person making an arrest would be required to contact police and follow their instructions. The changes would also clarify when reasonable restraints can be used in making an arrest. Additionally, the defence of property provisions in the act would be updated to specify that reasonable force may be used.
In a press release, Goldsmith said that the reforms aim to ensure that retail workers are better protected and that offenders can be apprehended more effectively. He described the economic cost of retail crime as significant and stated that many retailers and security personnel face risks in the course of their work.
McKee noted that about 230,000 New Zealanders work in the retail sector and that incidents of crime can have both personal and economic consequences for them. She said the advisory group was established to provide insights from retailers affected by crime and that the proposed reforms reflect their recommendations.
McKee stated that these reforms are part of a broader effort by the government to address retail crime. She indicated that additional measures will be introduced in the future.
