Nebraska\u27s Anti-Shoplifting Statute

The crime of shoplifting has become so widespread in Nebraska during the past decade that in many instances as much as twenty per cent of the merchandise tendered for sale becomes the fruit of a successful pilfering scheme. This upsurge may be attributed largely to the advent and expansion of self-service stores. Recognizing the need to fortify the merchant\u27s position in combating this problem, the Nebraska Legislature enacted an anti-shoplifting statute in 1957 and amended its provisions in 1963 to increase its effectiveness. I. Merchants versus Shoplifters before 1957 II. Legislative Solution III. Effect of the Legislation IV. Constitutional Issues Conclusio