The manager of the TigerDirect that unlawfully detained reader Shaneal Manek for his refusal to show a receipt called him this afternoon and apologized for his store's behavior. Shaneal told The Consumerist by phone that Tony, the store manager, pledged to retrain his staff on proper procedures and that they wouldn't retain the services of the security guard involved in the dispute.

Earlier, we spoke with Tiger Direct Executive Vice President Richard Wallet, who confirmed the receipt dispute incident did occur, and cast doubts on Shaneal's version of the events.

UPDATE: TigerDirect Apologizes For Unlawfully Detaining Customer For Refusing To Show Receipt

I was visiting a Tigerdirect (Large Electronic Retail Store) in Naperville, IL today (8/23/07)(8/22/07). All was going well until after I had paid for my merchandise and tried to leave.

A security guard demanded that I show him my receipt, which I respectfully declined with a "No Thanks" and continued walking out the door. At that point the Guard physically placed himself between me and the door and said "I can't let you leave until you show me your receipt." I attempted to walk around him, explaining I didn't have to show him anything, and he continued to block my path and called several other employees to block my retreat.

I understand the "Shopkeeper's Privilege", but under no possible interpretation of the law would refusing a voluntary receipt check constitute grounds for reasonable suspicion of shoplifting. At this point, I warned them that I was being unlawfully restrained, and unless they immediately allowed me to leave, I would call the police and press criminal charges for unlawful restraint, and also file a civil suit for false imprisonment (fortunately, I knew my rights).

None of them budged, and the store manager began verbally abusing and slandering me...

The Straight Scoop On If Stores Can Legally Stop You And Check Your Receipt

Ask The Consumerist: Do I Have To Let Stores Check My Receipt?