Which term refers to a belief based on credible information that a suspect committed a crime, creating a reasonable basis for investigation?

• A. Rapport
• B. Evidence
• C. Probable Cause
• D. Field Identification

Answer: (C)

Probable cause means you have credible information and observable facts that would lead a reasonable person to believe the suspect committed a crime. This standard is enough to justify taking action like detaining, questioning, arresting, or seeking a search warrant, but it’s not the same as proof beyond a reasonable doubt. It must be more than a guess and grounded in facts or circumstances that would convince a reasonable officer a crime occurred and involved the person in question. Building rapport is about gaining cooperation and isn’t what justifies an investigation. Evidence refers to the information used to prove guilt, which comes after probable cause in the investigation process. Field identification is simply recognizing a suspect in the field and doesn’t by itself establish criminal involvement.