What constitutes probable cause?

Probable cause refers to the reasonable grounds that law enforcement has to believe that a crime has been committed or that the evidence of that crime is present in a location. This standard is a critical threshold in law enforcement that ensures that officers have not only a hunch or vague suspicion but concrete justification based on facts or circumstances. In practical terms, probable cause is more than just an instinct; it requires factual assertions or credible information that supports the belief of criminal activity.

For instance, if a boarding team observes suspicious behavior or has received reputable reports of illegal activity, they could develop probable cause to initiate an investigation or boarding procedure. This definition aligns with legal standards set forth in court cases that shape practices in law enforcement.

In contrast, merely having a gut feeling or general suspicion does not meet the legal threshold of probable cause, as it lacks the necessary factual basis. Information from unreliable sources does not enhance the credibility of any assertion and could mislead law enforcement actions. Therefore, the correct understanding of probable cause hinges on the existence of reasonable grounds that can be substantiated by facts or reliable evidence.