strange act witnessed

I was at work and saw someone drinking beer on the job. Now, the course of action that should have followed:

send person home; notify unit chief; say ado to the person for, drinking on the job is an offense that leads to termination.

I didn't immediately send the person home, that person knows I know, and claimed to feel bad about it, and obviously needs the money. When the person gave me and, "I owe you", I figure that it might be a done issue. I cannot think of another leader who would have chosen my method of handling it. I may not have handled it right, or the best, but I don't think I shall have difficulty with that person again. At least, I hope not.