Was that thing legal in 1994? Like could they throw child in real jail like that?

I truly hope its not and they just made that up for movie. I could not believe my own eyes.

They found a boy who they suspect may know something so they attack him, intimidate and then freaking JUDGE throws him in adult jail? Taking him from him mother like that? Its crazy.

Like what would happen if they would ask him questions and he would just sit there numb and not answering any? Would they still thrown him in jail?

Actually his prison escape plan could have work earlier. He could pretend to be sick right there before court meeting. And they would take him to hospital. Then he could lie and pretend be sick like his brother.