MCOLES State Licensing Exam 2026 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

To make a lawful arrest, probable cause is necessary. Probable cause refers to a reasonable belief, based on facts and circumstances, that a person has committed a crime. This standard is higher than reasonable suspicion, which is merely a belief that a person may be involved in criminal activity but does not suffice for arrest. The existence of probable cause allows law enforcement to uphold the Fourth Amendment rights of individuals while also ensuring that arrests are based on credible information rather than mere assumptions.

Direct evidence and witness testimony can support the establishment of probable cause, but on their own, they are not sufficient to justify an arrest. One can have probable cause based on several factors, including circumstantial evidence or an officer's training and experience, without requiring direct evidence or statements from witnesses. Understanding this principle is crucial for law enforcement officers and is a foundational element of lawful policing practices.