tough love is the only way. Sometimes I really think lessons need to be learned. I have a wayward brother who does the same. Now he knows not to come to us because we tried to help him by bailing him out and finally all of us had to put our foot down and turn him away. Maybe the judge won't give him jail time, but probation or community service instead. Keep strong and resist going into debt because of your brother. Is there a reason why your parents don't get a credit card and pay it for him? Interest on cash advances from cards is very high.