A Government proposal for a new infringement offence for shoplifting would mean the burden of proof would fall on the suspect to prove their innocence.

Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith says this change strikes the right 'balance' between public safety and an individual’s rights, despite concerns from experts.

Criminal lawyer Steve Cullen says these changes make sense, given the wave of shoplifting impacting the country.

"It's simply regulating people's behaviour. You have a defence of saying - no, it's not true, for example. But also, you have a defence of saying - I took all positive steps to avoid it."

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