Just curious if anyone has any words of advice on this one. I have, on several occasions, been chased out of stores because the security sensor went off when I was leaving. After being forced back into the store, my bags searched and checked against my receipt, I am allowed to leave. The cashier just "forgot" to deactivate the sensor. I know I am not alone in this. I've seen it happen all the time. It's annoying, embarassing, sometimes threatening, and just seems...well...illegal.

Is the sensor alarm going off, in and of itself, probable cause to detain me and search me belongings? I had always throught they needed witnesses, had to know what the merchadise was, etc.

A side note, I live in Chicago where this is rampant in every store. What about those stores that make you wait in line to pay, and then force you to stand in line AGAIN at the door to have your reciept and items checked at the door. I thought once I paid, I was free to leave with my purchases.

I realize stores lose millions on shoplifters, but why should I be treated like a criminal when I have done nothing wrong. They should up their surveillance, not confine people at the door.

Just wondered if this had been tested anywhere. Thanks.