To me this was like being on the moonshiner tv show and then being “surprised” when a revenue agent buys your product and then arrests you.
I see your point.
They knew that they were violating government rules.
But in my mind the engines were sold in compliance with government regulations by the dealer.
After the initial sale, the compliance with government regulations is the responsibility of the owner.
Unless the government catches the violation in the position of the modifier the responsibility is with the present owner.
If untaxed moonshine is in your possession do they arrest you or do they let you go and charge the moonshiner?
This judge is trying to make a public example of these cable TV stars. It is unjust and excessive.