In the search equation, which element indicates probable cause?

• A. LE
• B. Looking for evidence
• C. PC
• D. None

Answer: (C)

Probable cause is the legal standard that justifies a search or seizure. In the search equation used in these questions, the indicator for that standard is the abbreviation for probable cause. Law enforcement (the agents) and the purpose (to look for evidence) describe who is acting and what they’re seeking, but they do not represent the threshold required to authorize the search. The term PC signals that the search is grounded in a sufficient factual basis that would lead a reasonable person to believe that a crime has been committed and that evidence of it will be found at the location. Therefore, PC is the best answer.