Which of the following best describes "probable cause"?

Which of the following best describes "probable cause"?

• A. A mere suspicion of illegal activity
• B. A solid belief supported by facts
• C. A lengthy investigation requirement
• D. An officer's discretion on a case

Answer: (B)

Probable cause is best described as a solid belief supported by facts. In the context of law enforcement, it refers to the reasonable grounds that law enforcement officers must have before making an arrest, obtaining a warrant, or conducting a search. This belief must be based on factual evidence, reasonable inferences from known facts, and circumstances that would lead a reasonable person to conclude that a crime has been or will be committed. This standard is not based on mere suspicion or a hunch; rather, it requires a factual foundation. The facts supporting probable cause must be sufficient enough that a reasonable person would agree that there is a good likelihood of criminal activity, thus justifying the need for further action, such as arrest or search. It is distinct from other concepts such as mere suspicion, which lacks the necessary factual basis, or lengthier investigative requirements that would go beyond what is needed to establish probable cause. Furthermore, it is not solely about an officer's discretion; while discretion plays a role in how officers interpret situations, probable cause must always be substantiated by facts.

Probable cause is best described as a solid belief supported by facts. In the context of law enforcement, it refers to the reasonable grounds that law enforcement officers must have before making an arrest, obtaining a warrant, or conducting a search. This belief must be based on factual evidence, reasonable inferences from known facts, and circumstances that would lead a reasonable person to conclude that a crime has been or will be committed.

This standard is not based on mere suspicion or a hunch; rather, it requires a factual foundation. The facts supporting probable cause must be sufficient enough that a reasonable person would agree that there is a good likelihood of criminal activity, thus justifying the need for further action, such as arrest or search. It is distinct from other concepts such as mere suspicion, which lacks the necessary factual basis, or lengthier investigative requirements that would go beyond what is needed to establish probable cause. Furthermore, it is not solely about an officer's discretion; while discretion plays a role in how officers interpret situations, probable cause must always be substantiated by facts.