In police procedure, what does probable cause mean?

• A. Reasonable grounds to believe that a crime has been or is being committed, sufficient to justify search or arrest.
• B. A hunch with no supporting facts.
• C. Proof beyond a reasonable doubt.
• D. A formal accusation by a grand jury.

Answer: (A)

Probable cause means reasonable grounds to believe that a crime has been or is being committed, based on facts and circumstances known to the officer. It sits between a mere hunch and proof beyond a reasonable doubt, and it must be drawn from actual information—observations, reliable tips, and any corroborating details—considered together in the totality of the circumstances. This standard justifies actions like making an arrest or obtaining a search warrant, because there’s enough supported belief that aid the police in pursuing justice. It’s not a formal accusation by a grand jury, which is a different step in the process. For example, seeing someone flee a scene with stolen property, combined with matching descriptions and other corroborating factors, can establish probable cause to arrest.