What is required for a valid arrest warrant?

• A. Probable cause, supported by oath or affirmation, with particularity describing the place to be searched and items to be seized.
• B. A grand jury indictment is required for all arrest warrants.
• C. A police officer's word alone.
• D. An anonymous tip alone.

Answer: (A)

The necessary rule is that a warrant must rest on probable cause, be supported by an oath or affirmation, and describe with particularity the person or place involved. This requirement ensures a judge or magistrate has a reliable basis to issue the warrant and that the warrant limits the officer’s intrusion.

The correct statement matches that standard by citing probable cause, an oath or affirmation, and particular description. Grand jury indictments are about charging someone with a crime, not a prerequisite for arrest warrants. A police officer’s word alone lacks the formal probable-cause basis. An anonymous tip alone typically isn’t enough without corroboration or additional evidence.