Which of the following best defines hard contraband?

Hard contraband refers to items that pose a significant threat to the safety and security of corrections facilities and their operations. These items can include weapons, drugs, tools that could facilitate escapes, or any object that could be deemed dangerous to both staff and inmates. The presence of these items can lead to violent incidents, escape attempts, or other security breaches, creating an unsafe environment.

In contrast, items that are authorized for possession or deemed safe to use without risk are not classified as contraband. Similarly, items that have been altered or modified from their original condition may not necessarily pose a safety threat, especially if they are still considered safe or legal for possession. The primary focus of the definition of hard contraband is on the potential harm it presents to the facility's safety and security. This is what makes the correct choice the best definition among the options provided.