62Appendix ACommander’s Guide To Articulate Probable Cause To Search1. Probable cause to authorize a search exists if there is a reasonable belief,
based on facts, that the person or evidence sought is at the place to be searched. Reasonable belief is more than mere suspicion. Witness or source should be asked three ques- tions:
a. What is where and when Get the facts!1) Be specific how much, size, color, etc. (2) Is it still there (or is information stale)?
a) If the witness saw a joint
in barracks room two weeks ago, it is probably gone the information is stale.
b) If the witness saw large quantity of marijuana in barracks room one day ago, it is probably still there the information is not stale.
b. How do you know Which of these apply:1) I saw it there Such personal observation is extremely reliable) He the suspect told me Such an admission is reliable) His the suspects roommate/wife/friend told me This is hearsay. Get details and call in source if possible) I heard it in the barracks Such rumor is unreliable unless there are specific corroborating and verifying details.
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