Yep, the only time I've been in trouble with Johnny law was because I drunken bar fight in my younger years, I was put before a judge on a TV, and released in about six hours.
I damn well know there was more than five bucks of damage.
Being held months on end, over five bucks worth of food is retarded.
Slap a fine, or even better give them community service, and send them on their way the same day.