What's the point of having punishments then?

I was reading some letters sent to the 'Today' newspaper.

It was from a few guys who thought that the punishment given to the kids who were caught downloading (or pirating) anime off the net are to harsh.

Isn't that what this is about?

Harsh punishments?

If it weren't harsh, will they get a message?

If your punishments weren't tough...

THEN WHAT'S THE POINT?

sigh...

Take from one who has been let off the hook many times.