If I were to judge by the picture of him in this morning's Globe, I'd have to say he was a pretty beefy kid. The picture shows him wearing a "Gold's Gym" t-shirt while sitting on a Nautilus weight-lifting machine. Further, he claimed to be on his way to a job---a construction job.
Educated guess? This kid might not have been such an innocent bystander. He might not be telling the exact truth. He probably mouthed off like a spoiled brat. But he doesn't deserve to get pepper-sprayed for being a spoiled wise-ass brat.
You're right, maybe not... from a legal standpoint. But, I'm sure, the next time, he will think twice about how he approaches an older woman, with a complaint. Lesson learned..
True. Given you description of him having his teeth kicked in would be more appropriate and leave a more lasting impression.