Did they actually charge or threaten to charge him? I watched the newscast, all I saw was the principal responding to a question from a reporter. If they did, then I agree with you.
I don’t think it makes a difference. If a 15 year old does a stupid stunt and now has to worry about being tagged as a “sex offender” - that could clearly mess with his head. 15 year olds don’t have the mental acuity to put things in perspective. Every problem looks big to them.