What are the three elements required to establish probable cause for a search?

To establish probable cause for a search, the correct answer highlights three critical elements that must be satisfied: the existence of an offense, a connection between the items sought and the offense, and the likelihood that the items can currently be found at the location in question.

The first element, the offense, establishes that there is a legitimate reason to conduct a search, showing a legal basis for the search warrant. Without an underlying offense, there would be no justification to infringe on a person's right to privacy.

The second element, which asserts that the items sought are connected to the offense, ensures that the search is targeted and not a fishing expedition. It requires that there is a reasonable belief that specific items related to the offense will be discovered during the search.

The third element requires that there is a belief that the items will currently be found at the location specified in the search warrant. This means there must be some basis for believing that the evidence is not only linked to the offense but also still exists in the location where the search is authorized.

In contrast, the other options do not adequately capture the essential components of probable cause as required by law. They include terms such as reasonable suspicion and witness testimony, which do not address the specific elements required for establishing