Legal Definitions - derivative contraband

Definition: Derivative contraband is a type of illegal item that becomes unlawful when it is used in committing an illegal act. It is different from contraband per se, which is illegal to possess regardless of how it is used.

Examples: A common example of derivative contraband is a car used in a drug trafficking operation. The car itself is not illegal to possess, but when it is used to transport drugs, it becomes derivative contraband. Another example is a computer used to commit cybercrime. The computer is legal to own, but when it is used to commit illegal activities, it becomes derivative contraband.

Explanation: The examples illustrate how derivative contraband is different from contraband per se. In both cases, the items themselves are legal to possess, but they become illegal when they are used in committing illegal acts. This distinction is important because it allows law enforcement to target the use of items in criminal activity, rather than just the possession of illegal items.