And the inherent problem is that there are a frightening amount of people who think that kids doing things like that are "morally reprehensible" and that such a prosecution is for the good of all.
The even more frightening thing is that there are public prosecutors with this view.
I actually find it much more frightening that many public prosecutors (at least in the US, where they are elected) may not hold that view, but think it'll get them elected.
The even more frightening thing is that there are public prosecutors with this view.