If the contraband is illegal in and of itself, it will be documented ____________.

When contraband is illegal in and of itself, it is categorized within a criminal framework. This classification of contraband implicates violations of criminal law, meaning that when such items are found, they lead to potential criminal charges against the individual in possession of them. Documentation of illegal contraband typically involves a formal report that details the nature of the contraband, how it was discovered, and the circumstances surrounding the incident. This systematic approach establishes a legal basis for prosecution, ensuring an accurate and thorough investigation, which is essential for upholding the law and maintaining order.

In contrast, civil documentation would relate more to violations that do not necessarily lead to criminal prosecution, such as regulatory infractions. Formally documenting refers to the structured manner in which reports are created, but the emphasis here is on the criminality of the contraband itself. Verbally documenting may be insufficient in a legal context, as it does not provide the necessary written evidence required for prosecution in criminal cases.