17 M.R.S. §3321-A: Store security

1. Definition. For purposes of this section, "convenience store" means a retail store that specializes in the sale of a limited quantity and variety of consumable items in their original containers.

2. Restrictions. A person may not keep open a convenience store 24 hours a day unless the store has:

A. A drop safe that is bolted to the floor, installed in the floor or weighs at least 500 pounds;

B. A conspicuous sign in the store entrance that states that between the hours of 9 p.m. and 5 a.m. the cash register contains $50 or less, that there is a safe in the store and that the safe is not accessible to the employees;

C. During the hours of 9 p.m. to 5 a.m., no more than $50 cash available and readily accessible to employees; and

D. An alarm or telephone within the store that is accessible to the employees. The alarm must be connected to a public or private safety agency.

3. Penalty. A person who violates this section commits a Class E crime. A violation of this section is a strict liability crime as defined in Title 17‑A, section 34, subsection 4‑A. A complaint charging violation of this section may not issue later than 5 days after its alleged commission. Each day that a violation of this section occurs is considered a separate offense.

4. Injunctive relief. In addition to any criminal penalties provided in this section, the Attorney General, a district attorney or a resident of a municipality in which a violation is claimed to have occurred may file a complaint with the Superior Court to enjoin a violation of this section. The Superior Court has original jurisdiction of the complaints and authority to enjoin the violations.