Which statement about probable cause for arrest is true?

Which statement about probable cause for arrest is true?

• A. It is never necessary for a warrant.
• B. It may be established by a mere rumor.
• C. It must be based on evidence beyond a reasonable doubt.
• D. It must be supported by oath or affirmation.

Answer: (D)

Probable cause for arrest means a reasonable belief, based on the facts and circumstances known to the officer, that a person has committed a crime. When an arrest warrant is sought, that probable cause must be supported by oath or affirmation—a sworn statement describing the facts that establish the basis for the arrest. The oath provides a formal, sworn basis for the judge or magistrate to assess whether there is enough cause to issue the warrant, offering a legal check before liberty is restricted. It can’t rest on mere rumors, it isn’t the same as the proof required to convict, and while warrants require probable cause, the defining requirement here is the sworn oath or affirmation.

Probable cause for arrest means a reasonable belief, based on the facts and circumstances known to the officer, that a person has committed a crime. When an arrest warrant is sought, that probable cause must be supported by oath or affirmation—a sworn statement describing the facts that establish the basis for the arrest. The oath provides a formal, sworn basis for the judge or magistrate to assess whether there is enough cause to issue the warrant, offering a legal check before liberty is restricted. It can’t rest on mere rumors, it isn’t the same as the proof required to convict, and while warrants require probable cause, the defining requirement here is the sworn oath or affirmation.