How should contraband discoveries be handled during an interaction?

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When contraband is found, the priority is safety and accountability. The correct approach is to secure the item so others cannot access it, preserve the integrity of the evidence by maintaining the chain of custody (recording who handled it, where it’s stored, and when), and document the discovery and actions taken, then report through the proper channels per policy. This keeps the item from being tampered with or lost and ensures there is an auditable trail for any administrative or disciplinary actions that follow.

Ignoring the discovery or letting it linger without securing or documenting creates safety risks and undermines fairness and accountability. Simply letting staff know later or informing only a supervisor without taking steps to secure and log the item fails to preserve evidence and breaches procedures designed to protect everyone involved.