People were arrested in a sting operation, there is a news element. Many are sickened by the disgraceful behavior of people who believe their frumkeit is the only way and they have a right to hurt others who act differently, or leave the shtetl. That’s not Torah.
Some food for thought to all those who attack others: If “your” derech is so perfect, you don’t have to worry that your children might leave. If you are so concerned about it, maybe you need to re-assess your fundamental beliefs.