Not everyone gets a chance at probation. It’s an opportunity for someone to prove that they have grown and learned from the errors in their past. It presents a lot of freedoms and responsibilities, but with those come a set of rules. Violating those probationary rules, no matter how small they may seem, is breaking that trust. Because of that, heavy consequences can result.
Violating probation comes in many varying forms. Some result from major errors, while others might seem commonplace. Regardless of the nature of them, Indiana takes them seriously.
Four ways to violate probation
Criminal activity: While this might seem obvious, committing more crimes, while trying to prove that jail is not necessary, is not a smart idea.
Failing a drug test: No matter what the original offense was, if someone fails a drug test, it is a major violation.
Missing a meeting with a probation officer: This one might not seem like a big deal. After all, in the scheme of society, plenty of people miss meetings or show up late to them. Well, probationary rules are different. It still counts a violation.
Traveling without clearing it with a probation officer: Especially when the weather is nice and people from all around have get-togethers, it’ll be tempting to just go to events. However, when unauthorized travel occurs, it qualifies as a violation.
It is worth noting that no violation should come as a surprise. Probationary terms should be very clearly laid out to whomever they apply to. Because of that, claiming ignorance is not a strong alibi.
And if a violation occurs…
You could end up serving the entire sentence for the crime committed. According to Indiana Law, further punishment may also come into play, including increasing restrictions in probation, and even increasing the length that one must serve their probation. No matter if one believes that they won’t get caught, they put themselves at risk for jail time for any indiscretion they make.