What must be established to obtain a search warrant?

To obtain a search warrant, it is essential to establish probable cause based on facts and evidence. Probable cause is a legal standard that requires a reasonable belief that a crime has been committed or that evidence of a crime can be found in the location to be searched. This belief must be supported by factual information, which can include observations, documentation, or testimony that a law enforcement officer gathers.

The process is designed to protect individuals' Fourth Amendment rights against unreasonable searches and seizures. The requirements for a warrant ensure that there is a sufficient basis for the search, preventing arbitrary actions by law enforcement.

While other options may provide context or additional information that could be relevant in the search process, they do not fulfill the legal requirement of establishing probable cause, which is the central criterion for warrant issuance. For instance, intelligence from informants can contribute to establishing probable cause, but it is not an independent criterion. Similarly, a documented history of criminal behavior and approval from a superior officer may be relevant in law enforcement operations, but they do not directly equate to the legal necessity of showing probable cause for a search warrant.