What is required for a warrant to be issued?

A warrant requires probable cause supported by oath or affirmation because this standard ensures that there is a factual basis for the issuance of the warrant. Probable cause means that there are sufficient grounds to believe that a crime has been committed or that evidence of a crime will be found in the location specified in the warrant. The requirement for an oath or affirmation emphasizes the seriousness of the claims being made and holds accountable the individual requesting the warrant, typically a law enforcement officer or agent. This legal threshold protects citizens from arbitrary searches and seizures under the Fourth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution.

The other options do not meet the constitutional standard for issuing a warrant. General allegations of illegal activity lack specificity and do not demonstrate the necessary basis to justify invasive actions such as searches or arrests. Witness testimonies may be useful, but they alone do not satisfy the requirement for a warrant unless they are included in the supporting documentation to establish probable cause. Verification from multiple law enforcement agencies is not a standard requirement for issuing a warrant and does not contribute to determining the existence of probable cause.