These violations include failure to report for drug testing, stalling by saying that it is not possible to urinate at that time, providing diluted specimens, positive alcohol and drug tests, and some arrests and convictions for minor offenses. The least severe sanction is an admonishment; a verbal admonishment is less severe than a written admonishment. Verbal admonishments are more likely to have an impact if delivered in person. An admonishment often takes the form of a warning that further violations will result in more severe action. Written admonishments are more likely than a verbal admonishments to have an effect; they can also help officers demonstrate that they have attempted to work with offenders to no avail. The next level of sanction is a verbal admonishment by the probation officer and supervisor at a meeting. Further levels of sanctions include a written admonishment by the United States Parole Commission, a verbal admonishment by the court, an extension of the time that the offender must remain in the current phase level, and an increase in the phase level. Additional sanctions include an increased level of supervision, community service, attendance at meetings of Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous, outpatient counseling, and electronic monitoring. Increasing levels of sanctions include participation in a community correctional center; residence and participation in a sober-living program; arrest, short-term custody, and reinstatement to supervision; intermittent incarceration such as weekend commitment; a therapeutic community (residential drug treatment); and arrest, custody, and recommendation for revocation of supervision. Verification of compliance is crucial for many of these sanctions if the probation officer is to maintain credibility and effectiveness. Therefore, probation officers must believe that offenders must be held accountable for their decision to use drugs. 13 references