DUI/DWI offenders in St. Thomas are occasionally given the option to take advantage of an alcohol and drug treatment facility instead of penalties for their drug or alcohol related offenses. The consequences for these types of criminal offenses can occasionally be very severe, and may include jail time and serious fines and even significant costs associated with being in court for and/or convicted of DUI/DWI. Often, particularly for initial offenders, the judge may decide that addressing the issues of drug or alcohol abuse in drug or alcohol rehab is will prove more effective in the long run for curbing the problem. For DUI/DWI offenders in St. Thomas who are lucky enough to be able to take part in such treatment instead of other additional extreme punishment, a great number will remain out of the criminal justice system permanently.