Verb
serve time (third-person singular simple present serves time, present participle serving time, simple past and past participle served time)
(idiomatic) To be confined in prison or a similar institution, typically for wrongdoing that violates the law.
Yet, when child sex offenders are brought to justice and serve time for their offenses, they are often released into unsuspecting communities and left free to resume their sexual attacks. Bob Ney
Let’s not forget that the cops sentenced to serve time for making a homeless man lick a urinal were also taken out by U.S. Attorney Kenji Price. Source: Internet
He was given a stayed sentence of two years in prison and three years extended supervision - meaning he will not have to serve time unless he violates probation. Source: Internet
Now, though, the 43-year-old will serve time in state prison, after officials figured out the service record was fake, according to the Eagle. Source: Internet
Valden will serve time through a work project or by wearing an ankle monitor. Source: Internet