Which term describes a situation in which enough facts lead a reasonable person to believe there is a fair probability of criminal activity?

• A. Reasonable Suspicion
• B. Probable Cause
• C. Hunch
• D. Actual Evidence

Answer: (B)

This describes probable cause—the level of belief needed to justify arrests or searches. It’s based on enough facts that would lead a reasonable person to conclude there is a fair probability of criminal activity or that evidence of a crime will be found in the place to be searched. It’s stronger than reasonable suspicion (which justifies brief stops or detentions) but not a guarantee of guilt. It’s not simply a hunch (which lacks factual basis) and it doesn’t require actual proof; it’s a reasonable probability grounded in observed facts and circumstances, not certainty.