Which option is a valid method to establish probable cause besides personal observation?

• A. Detector dog alone
• B. Information obtained from a reliable informant
• C. A weather report
• D. A random check

Answer: (B)

Probable cause can come from sources beyond what you directly observe, as long as the information is credible and reliable. Information from a reliable informant is a strong way to establish probable cause because it provides knowledge about criminal activity or a location that you wouldn’t know from personal observation alone. The informant’s reliability and the basis of their knowledge are important factors; when their information is credible and, if possible, corroborated by independent facts, it can give lawful grounds to act, such as conducting a search or making an arrest.

Relying on a detector dog alone isn’t typically sufficient to establish probable cause. The dog’s alert must be interpreted and supported by human assessment and additional corroborating evidence to be reliable. A weather report has no bearing on criminal activity or the present likelihood of finding contraband. A random check likewise lacks any specific, factual basis linking to criminal activity, so it doesn’t meet the standard of probable cause.