What is meant by "graduated sanctions" in probation?

The term "graduated sanctions" refers to a system where the consequences for probation violations increase in severity based on the frequency and nature of the infractions. This approach allows probation officers to respond appropriately to a variety of behaviors exhibited by the probationer. Rather than imposing the same consequence for every violation, graduated sanctions aim to address minor issues with less severe repercussions while reserving harsher penalties for repeated or more serious violations. This method is intended to encourage compliance and rehabilitation, offering a structured response that can guide probationers towards more positive behaviors, rather than simply punishing them indiscriminately.