Which term represents the belief that a crime has been committed, justifying an arrest without a warrant?

• A. Investigative Detention
• B. Tinted Windows
• C. Probable Cause
• D. Fillers

Answer: (C)

Probable cause is the belief that a crime has been committed, based on facts and circumstances that would lead a reasonable person to conclude that the person before them is involved. It’s more than a hunch but not as strong as proof beyond a reasonable doubt, and it’s what justifies arresting someone without a warrant. In real terms, probable cause can arise from what you directly observe, statements from reliable witnesses, or other information that ties a suspect to the crime. It’s the standard that protects both public safety and individual rights by requiring a reasonable basis before detaining someone. The other options don’t fit because investigative detention covers only a brief stop for investigation with only reasonable suspicion—not an arrest—while the remaining terms aren’t relevant to the law governing warrantless arrests.