What must happen to all contraband after a criminal trial if an appeal is not possible?

In the context of criminal justice and evidence handling, if contraband has been identified during a trial and no possibility of an appeal exists, the standard procedure is to destroy the contraband. This approach is rooted in the principle that contraband is illegal by definition and not permissible for any lawful use. Once the judicial process is concluded and a decision has been finalized without any pending appeals, the contraband cannot be kept or returned to the owner due to its illegal status. The destruction of such items helps prevent them from being reintroduced into circulation, thereby reducing the risk of further illegal activities. This practice also upholds the integrity of the law and helps ensure public safety.