Which statement about confidential informants for search warrants is accurate?

Prepare for the Fairfax County Criminal Justice Academy Test with flashcards and multiple-choice questions. Each question includes hints and explanations to help you succeed. Get exam-ready!

Confidential informants are a common source used to establish probable cause, but they are not mandatory for every warrant. The Fourth Amendment requires probable cause, and that can come from an informant’s information only if it is credible and supported by the totality of the circumstances. A warrant can also be based on independent evidence the officer has gathered—such as observations, surveillance, or physical evidence—without relying on a confidential informant. If an informant’s tip is used, it’s typically strengthened by corroboration from other sources. In short, you can issue a warrant with or without a confidential informant, as long as probable cause is supported.