Lawyer Stan Alieke warned that homeowners who install electrified deterrents risk criminal liability if an intruder is electrocuted and there was no clear warning displayed. He said failure to inform the public could expose property owners to prosecution.
Legal experts say property owners owe a duty of care to anyone on their premises, and deliberately hazardous devices without proper signage can lead to both criminal and civil consequences. Courts will consider intent, foreseeability, and whether reasonable warnings were given.
Alieke’s comments have sparked calls for clearer public guidance on home security measures and for homeowners to consult legal counsel before using potentially lethal deterrents to avoid unintended legal repercussions.