Three Brooklyn high school students who helped capture a subway arson suspect are being denied a $10,000 NYPD reward on a technicality. The teens spotted Sebastian Zapeta-Calil, accused of setting a woman on fire, and immediately called 911. Their tip led to his arrest at the Herald Square station. But because they didn’t use the Crime Stoppers hotline, officials say they don’t qualify for the reward.

The decision has sparked backlash. City Council Member Susan Zhuang says the teens should be honored, not punished for doing the right thing. Curtis Sliwa, founder of the Guardian Angels, called it “bureaucratic nonsense.” The students’ families are pushing back, arguing that calling 911 in an emergency is the most natural response.

While officials stand by the policy, critics say it discourages public cooperation. As the controversy grows, many are asking—should saving lives come with fine print?