I am trying to find out if my employee rights were violated when recent events occured at my workplace.
On a recent workday, I was notified by my department manager that a company rep was inspecting my personal bag that I left in my department. The rep said he was within his rights to look through any employee's personal items because of his position with the company, and that he didn't have to inform the owner when he decides to do this. On a second incident, I caught the same person taking my bag out of my department. I stopped him, and after a heated confontration, I got my bag back.
On both incidences, the same person acted without my knowledge or permission. I also questioned the store manager after the first incidence. He told me that it was company policy.
The company's policy does state that personal things can be inspected for safety and drug use reasons. However, I always thought that the owner must be asked beforehand and present when any inspection occured. Further, I don't feel it right that personal property be taken without knowledge or approval.
I would like clarification on California's employment law. I would like to know if what transpired was legal, and what my options are in this matter.
Thank you

