What does probable cause entail?

Probable cause entails the possession of information that indicates a person is likely to be guilty of a crime. This legal standard is fundamental in law enforcement as it provides the justification for actions such as making an arrest, conducting searches, or obtaining warrants. Probable cause requires that law enforcement have concrete facts or evidence that would lead a reasonable person to believe that a crime has been committed and that the individual in question is connected to that crime. It moves beyond mere suspicion or conjecture, ensuring that law enforcement actions are based on solid grounds rather than unfounded beliefs. This is crucial for upholding the rights of individuals while enabling effective law enforcement.