Probable cause is defined as which of the following?

Probable cause is defined as which of the following?

• A. A hunch that a crime occurred.
• B. A practical, common-sense probability that the items sought will be located.
• C. Proof beyond a reasonable doubt.
• D. A credible rumor with no corroboration.

Answer: (B)

Probable cause is a practical, common-sense probability that the items sought will be located. In practice, it means the facts and circumstances known to the officer would lead a reasonable person to believe that evidence, contraband, or a crime is present in the place to be searched or that the person to be arrested committed the crime. It’s more than a mere hunch or rumor but less than proof beyond a reasonable doubt. A bare hunch or an uncorroborated rumor does not meet the standard, and proof beyond a reasonable doubt is the level required for conviction, not for establishing probable cause.

Probable cause is a practical, common-sense probability that the items sought will be located. In practice, it means the facts and circumstances known to the officer would lead a reasonable person to believe that evidence, contraband, or a crime is present in the place to be searched or that the person to be arrested committed the crime. It’s more than a mere hunch or rumor but less than proof beyond a reasonable doubt. A bare hunch or an uncorroborated rumor does not meet the standard, and proof beyond a reasonable doubt is the level required for conviction, not for establishing probable cause.