Confiscate

To take or seize someone's property with authority, usually as a penalty or a result of a breach of law or policy. It implies a forceful and often permanent taking away of possessions. The action can be carried out by government agencies, law enforcement, or other authorities. The item is often considered illegal, illicit, or needed as evidence. The purpose is frequently to punish, deter future wrongdoing, or to gain control of something dangerous or valuable, or take items that are being used as tools for illegal activities.

Confiscate meaning with examples

• The customs officers decided to Confiscate the traveler's illegal goods after a search revealed undeclared items. The traveler protested, but the authorities were unwavering. The goods, suspected to be smuggled items, were seized to deter further infractions and were later destroyed as per the regulations.
• Following the protest, the police were forced to Confiscate all the signs and banners that protesters used to protest during the event. The signs were viewed as inciting violence, disrupting peace, and disobeying court orders, so the police made the decision.
• Due to the student's repeated use of a phone in the classroom, the teacher was forced to Confiscate the device, which went against the school rules. The teacher gave the student notice that it would be returned at the end of the week, after speaking with the student's parents.
• The government decided to Confiscate the properties of individuals that were associated with the illegal activities. The seized properties will be auctioned, with proceeds used to aid victims. This was done as a way to send a message against crime.
• During an investigation, the detectives confiscated the suspect's phone as it may contain vital evidence regarding the missing person case. This allowed them to gather all available data such as text messages, call history, and GPS location which might prove helpful.