I understand where you are coming from, but you must remember a few things.
1) It may seem like more people are breaking the rules, but there are more people on the server. Let's say we have a constant 10% rule breaking rate. One year ago, assume that there were 100 people. Therefore, 10 people broke the rules. Now assume that there are now 300 people. Now 30 people are breaking the rules. It seems as if there is more rule breaking, but it only seems that way because more and more come.
2) If they came to break the rules, then no matter what you do, they will break the rules. It just depends on where you catch them in the line.
Also remember, that now that the server is more popular, that means that it will attract more people with the aim of doing said things. There is little to prevent from that, and is generally a consequence of business.
3) It is nearly impossible to perfectly follow the rules, and especially at all times. Griefing and stealing is a matter of pre-determination, however, if the person is generally rude and vulgar(as it is their personality), and it is (one of) their first offense(s), then there is usually some sort of leniency allowed. If I have had a bad day(someone griefed me and such), should I be instantly jailed when I in some way act rude to someone, especially if it is a first offense?
However, should I continue to swear and be rude, then that is grounds for punishment. Another serious exception are racial slurs, and other words meant to demean and/or insult.
Please consider these when you think about "proper punishments" for those that have broken the rules. Do not assume that our current admins and moderators haven't thought and talked about this subject.