What factors does probable cause rely on?

Probable cause is a legal standard used in criminal law that requires law enforcement to have a set of facts and circumstances that would lead a reasonable person to believe that a crime has been committed, is being committed, or will be committed. This is not based on mere speculation or belief but requires tangible evidence or articulable facts that can be reasonably interpreted as indicative of criminal activity.

The notion of "articulable facts and reasonable belief of crime" emphasizes that officers must be able to explain their reasons for suspecting criminal activity based on specific and objective observations or evidence rather than on vague hunches or unfounded instincts. This standard helps ensure that law enforcement actions are justified and protects individuals' rights against arbitrary or unwarranted intrusions.

Other options do not meet the criteria for establishing probable cause, such as guessing or relying simply on public opinion, which do not offer the factual basis needed to support legal action. Previous convictions may influence an officer’s suspicion but do not serve as the sole foundation for establishing probable cause without the presence of new, reasonable evidence of current criminal conduct.