[mothered]

If convicted, the 18 year old could face up to five years in prison on each count.

Ridiculous.

State statutes defined a third-degree computer crime as having occurred when “the damage to or the value of the property or computer services exceeds one thousand dollars

Copying & pasting text caused 1,000$+ In damages?

or the person recklessly engages in conduct which creates a risk of serious physical injury to another person.

Perhaps they haven't realized It was done via an online gateway, which does not have a direct physical Impact on an Individual.