The theory behind alternatives to incarceration is to divert nonviolent offenders from prison and instead punish and control them in a less expensive way. In Maricopa County (Arizona), two committees looked at intermediate sanctions and community punishment. The system that evolved represents a continuum of sanctions. Fines and summary probation constitute the least restrictive end of the spectrum. As controls are imposed, the system moves up to standard probation and community restitution and on through intensive probation. The more restrictive end of the spectrum includes a day reporting center, a county jail, boot camp, and State prison. The heart of the intermediate sanction program is intensive probation supervision. In its most restrictive phase, intensive probation consists of house arrest with at least four, face-to-face supervisory contacts weekly by a surveillance officer, random drug testing, 40 hours of community service monthly, and payment of court-ordered fines and fees. One of the key ways in which the range of sanctions diverts offenders from prison is by giving judges a way of stepping up controls on those who violate probation. Most offenders in Maricopa County's intensive probation supervision program are either drunk drivers or drug addicts. Intermediate sanctions used in other States are noted, and data are provided on the number of Americans imprisoned by State. 1 table