It really is strange; as an American I hope they come out of it OK, but they have some ‘splaining to do. A growing trend in the US is to charge hikers when they need rescue; what would be the bill for this?
They will never be able to repay in $ whoever bails them out or pays their fines. I feel sorrow for them. They have learned reality the hard way. They have been deceived by our educational system and parents. Now, they will hopefully be grateful for America’s freedoms. Some are always going to forfeit their lives getting thrills, like the young Florida cave explorers in Georgia. Thrill seekers should be rescued but not at the expense of their rescuers. IMO