NSW: Shopkeeper sparks calls for use of deadly force

AAP General News (Australia)
08-08-2000
NSW: Shopkeeper sparks calls for use of deadly force

A shopkeeper charged with assault after arresting a teenager who robbed his store has
sparked calls for retailers to be allowed to use deadly force when protecting their property.

NSW Premier BOB CARR has rushed to Maitland video shop owner JOHN LEE'S defence, setting
up a working party of police, retailers, and government advisers to investigate whether
the law needed to be clarified.

But the state opposition has gone a step further, calling on the government to consider
a bill which will allow store owners to use deadly force when protecting themselves against
thieves.

Mr LEE was put on a six-month good behaviour bond when he detained a 17-year-old boy
who stole $500 worth of films.

Magistrate RICHARD WAKELEY found the shopkeeper had assaulted the juvenile.

Mr CARR says he has complete sympathy with Mr LEE and other shopkeepers who are facing
persecution from young thieves.

However, shadow attorney general CHRIS HARTCHER has dismissed the working party as
a waste of time saying the government needs to move faster to spell out the community's
rights.

AAP RTV jw/jx/jn

KEYWORD: RETAILERS ( SYDNEY)

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