[AmishDude]

If the kid was exploited by his parents as you speculate despite their denials, forcing his apology is a more exploitive act on the part of the judge.

[Stone Mountain]

If the kid was exploited by his parents as you speculate despite their denials, forcing his apology is a more exploitive act on the part of the judge.

Interesting point. I've never really been a fan of forced apologies anyway. An apology is only real if one means it.

[Dante3]

It is sad that some people on this thread are unable to believe that a child is capable of performing a good act - I can imagine what they or their children, if they have any, must be like.

I've seen children do good deeds. And yes, as a parent, I'd urge my children do to the right thing and teach them compassion.