Judge Juan Merchan ruled Trump in contempt for nine violations of his gag order, with a fine of $1,000 for each instance. He warned in the decision that he would not tolerate further violations of the order and said “if necessary and appropriate under the circumstances,” he would impose “an incarceratory punishment” on the former president.
1k/each infraction is statutory in New York state. The other option is jail.
The judge is using the maximum of the lower level rebuke first, as he should with any defendant. Hes also made it clear he will use the harsher penalty if it doesnt stop.
Seems entirely fair and reasonable.