In this excerpt from "New York to Dallas" by J.D. Robb, a conversation reveals a humorous take on justice and accountability among children. The speaker jokingly suggests that a minor theft, like stealing a candy bar, could lead to an arrest. He mentions his friend Everet's punishment, highlighting how his mother made him repay for the theft with his allowance and imposed a month-long candy ban.

The lighthearted tone contrasts with the serious implications of law enforcement. The response indicates that Everet has already faced consequences for his actions, suggesting that the justice system can sometimes operate on a more personal level, especially among young people. This playful banter underscores the theme of how children perceive and deal with right and wrong.