Which term refers to any unauthorized article or any authorized article in excessive quantities or altered from its intended purpose?

• A. Evidence
• B. Contraband
• C. Supplies
• D. Tools

Answer: (B)

Contraband is the term used in correctional settings for any item that is not allowed inside the facility, or an item that is authorized but present in excessive quantities or used in a way that differs from its approved purpose. This covers items that are completely forbidden as well as authorized items that are misused, stockpiled beyond what’s allowed, or repurposed to serve a purpose other than what they were intended for. The focus is on preventing items that can threaten security, order, or safety, or enable illegal activity or escapes.

Evidence refers to items tied to investigations or court cases, which isn’t about inside-facility restrictions. Supplies and Tools describe general categories of items and aren’t defined by the misuse or improper quantities that define contraband.