Which items must be included in verifying a search warrant under §19.2-56?

Which items must be included in verifying a search warrant under §19.2-56?

• A. All of the above
• B. Name of affiant
• C. List of criminal offenses
• D. Name or description of the persons or premises

Answer: (A)

The essential requirement here is that a search warrant under §19.2-56 must be precise and tied to identifiable facts and targets. First, including the name of the affiant shows who filed the sworn application and provides accountability for the information presented. Second, listing the criminal offenses gives the magistrate the basis for probable cause and explains why a search is justified in connection with those alleged crimes. Third, stating the name or description of the persons or premises to be searched limits the scope so the warrant targets specific individuals or locations and prevents a broad, unfocused intrusion. When all three elements are present, the warrant meets the statutory safeguards for specificity and accountability, making it valid and enforceable.

The essential requirement here is that a search warrant under §19.2-56 must be precise and tied to identifiable facts and targets. First, including the name of the affiant shows who filed the sworn application and provides accountability for the information presented. Second, listing the criminal offenses gives the magistrate the basis for probable cause and explains why a search is justified in connection with those alleged crimes. Third, stating the name or description of the persons or premises to be searched limits the scope so the warrant targets specific individuals or locations and prevents a broad, unfocused intrusion. When all three elements are present, the warrant meets the statutory safeguards for specificity and accountability, making it valid and enforceable.