Sorbent materials are described that have enhanced performance in removing chlorine and chloramine, among other toxic compounds. The sorbent materials are formed by a process which includes steps of oxidation, adding a nitrogen-containing compound, and calcining the sorbent. The processes of forming the sorbent materials are also disclosed. The sorbent materials have excellent performance as measured by a chloramine and/or chlorine destruction number, and the sorbents retain a high nitrogen edge concentration. The sorbent materials may also be incorporated into devices such as filter assemblies.