Probable cause for a search warrant must show what?

• A. It must be probable that property connected to a crime is in the place to be searched.
• B. It must show the suspect is present.
• C. It must show the owner consents.
• D. It must show the property is legal.

Answer: (A)

The key idea is that probable cause for a search warrant requires a fair probability that evidence connected to a crime will be found at the place to be searched. In other words, the facts and circumstances presented to a judge must make it reasonable to believe that the location contains items tied to the offense. It’s about where the evidence is likely to be, not about arresting a person or about the property’s legality. For example, if reliable information indicates stolen items are in a particular house, that can establish probable cause to search that house. The suspect’s presence isn’t required for a search warrant, and consent from the owner isn’t needed when a warrant is obtained. The focus is on evidence related to the crime, not on whether the property itself is legal.