Meanwhile at a S.F. Walgreens

[IcyPeas]

11. Penal Code 459.5 PC is the statute that makes shoplifting a misdemeanor offense in California

... This section defines shoplifting as entering an open business with the intent to steal merchandise worth $950 or less. The crime is punishable by probation, fines, restitution, and up to 6 months in jail.

....
6. What are loss prevention officers allowed to do in California?
Loss prevention officers are private security guards. They are employed by many stores to prevent shoplifting. They do this by monitoring shoppers.

These officers are not the same as law enforcement officers. This means they cannot arrest a person suspected of shoplifting.

But they can still do the following if they believe someone is stealing store property:

Ask to look in a suspect’s bag (but the suspect can refuse),
use reasonable force to detain someone,
detain a suspect for a reasonable time, and
require a person to stay with them until the police department arrives.


https://www.shouselaw.com/ca/defense/penal-code/459-5/