What is needed for theft charges to be pursued against a suspect caught by a merchant?

To pursue theft charges against a suspect caught by a merchant, it is essential for the merchant to hand the suspect over to law enforcement in a reasonable time. This action helps establish that the merchant took appropriate measures in response to the theft and allows law enforcement to assess the situation and take further action as necessary.

When a suspect is apprehended for theft, the immediate involvement of law enforcement is crucial for several reasons. It ensures that proper legal procedures are followed, which is necessary for the prosecution of theft. Additionally, the concept of a "reasonable time" is important to provide the authorities enough opportunity to investigate the incident without unnecessary delay.

Other options, such as conducting a full search or documenting the theft, might contribute to the overall handling of the situation but are not legally required steps for pursuing theft charges. Similarly, releasing the suspect immediately undermines the ability to hold them accountable for the theft, which is contrary to the objective of pursuing charges. Thus, the correct course of action aligns with the legal protocols surrounding the apprehension and reporting of theft to law enforcement.