DUI/DWI offenders in Damascus are often given the option to take advantage of an alcohol and drug rehabilitation center as opposed to receiving other consequences for their drug or alcohol related offenses. Penalties for these types of crimes can often be rather harsh, including incarceration and significant fines and various absorbitant costs associated with being in the court system for and/or found guilty of DUI/DWI. More often than not, particularly for first time offenders, the criminal justice system will decide that addressing the concerns of drug or alcohol abuse in drug or alcohol rehab is will prove more effective in the long term for curbing the issue. For DUI/DWI offenders in Damascus that are lucky enough to be permitted to take part in such treatment instead of other additional extreme punishment, a great number will remain away from the court system permanently.