The practical effect of the penalty is relative to a person's ability to handle it.
Wealthy people having to pay their way out of an awkward situation caused by their own irresponsibility? I don't know the means of these people but based on where they live, it amounts to the equivalent of a speeding ticket.
Keep in mind, they aren't the only victims of their irresponsibility now. They have had to create this narrative of a bottom feeding couple trying to cheat them out of their street. It's character assassination and it's another reason not to feel sorry for them.