Maimonides believed that if you attempt to return to Judaism and even practice a little bit (with the intention of returning to the fold when the time is right) you will be forgiven. Rabbis took the Maimonidean position vis a vis the marranos in the 15th and 16th centuries.
I agree with your description. But being forgiven does not mean it is okay to do. Maimonedes stressed that people should leave, even though it meant great risk and sacrifice, rather than stay and convert.
I am not judging these men since I have never been in their place nor is it my place.