What sensory experiences help officers establish probable cause for marijuana possession?

The correct choice emphasizes the importance of both sight and smell in establishing probable cause for marijuana possession.

Sight is a critical sensory experience because officers may observe physical characteristics associated with marijuana, such as the plant itself, its distinct leaves, or any paraphernalia related to marijuana usage, such as pipes or papers. These visual cues can strongly suggest the presence of marijuana.

Smell plays an equally significant role because marijuana has a robust, distinctive odor that can be readily identified by those familiar with the substance. The scent is often recognized even before the marijuana is visually confirmed, making it a key factor in establishing probable cause. Law enforcement officers who are trained to detect this odor can leverage it as evidence to support their suspicions regarding illegal possession.

Combining both sensory experiences allows officers to build a more compelling case for probable cause, as both visual confirmation and olfactory evidence reinforce suspicions about marijuana possession. Other sensory experiences, such as touch or taste, do not provide the same level of reliable evidence that can be used in a legal context.