Which scenario best demonstrates probable cause for an arrest?

• A. A reliable informant's tip corroborated by physical evidence and a description of the suspect with a firearm.
• B. A vague rumor.
• C. An anonymous tip with no corroboration.
• D. A friend's unverified statement.

Answer: (B)

Probable cause means there are reasonable grounds to believe a crime has been committed and that the person before you is involved, based on facts and circumstances you can articulate. In the scenario where a reliable informant provides a tip that is corroborated by physical evidence and a specific description of the suspect with a firearm, the mix of credible information, independent verification, and concrete details creates a solid, articulable basis for arrest. The corroboration reduces the risk that the information is erroneous, and the firearm detail adds immediacy and specificity, making it more persuasive to a reasonable officer that the person described is connected to the crime. By contrast, vague rumors, anonymous tips with no corroboration, or an unverified statement from a friend lack reliable corroboration and specifics, so they generally do not meet the threshold of probable cause for an arrest.