What must an officer have in order to utilize the hot and fresh pursuit doctrine effectively?

To effectively utilize the hot and fresh pursuit doctrine, an officer must have probable cause that a crime has occurred. This legal principle allows law enforcement officers to pursue a suspect who is fleeing from the scene of a crime without a warrant, provided they have reasonable grounds to believe that the suspect has committed an offense. Probable cause is essential because it ensures that the chase is grounded in a legitimate belief that criminal activity has taken place, safeguarding individual rights against unlawful searches and seizures.

The hot and fresh pursuit doctrine is designed to prevent the escape of suspects and the potential destruction of evidence. It is specifically applicable in situations where immediate action is necessary, and having probable cause validates the officer's decision to pursue the suspect beyond their jurisdiction or into private property without first obtaining a warrant.