Define "probable cause" in the context of arrests.

Probable cause refers to a reasonable belief, based on facts and circumstances, that a person has committed a crime. This standard is essential for law enforcement officers during arrests, as it ensures that there is a factual basis for their actions rather than relying solely on intuition or unfounded feelings. Probable cause is the threshold the police must meet to justify the arrest of an individual, as it protects citizens from arbitrary detentions and ensures that law enforcement has legitimate grounds for their actions.

In legal terms, probable cause can be established through various forms of evidence, including witness statements, physical evidence, and the officer’s own observations. This standard is a safeguard within the criminal justice system, reflecting the balance between individual rights and the need for effective law enforcement.