Well, still 'just' an individual though. If this were MS or Sony stealing the picture the pitchforks would be out within two seconds. Otherwise, nobody gives a crap.
Not saying that they're right, but the music, movie and TV pirating is a much more blatant case of the double standard over there.
Also, RE: crimes and punishments. It's not an American thing. I don't even think it's internet asshole syndrome, as I've heard similar stuff in person. If it's a stranger no punishment is harsh enough. Eye for an eye, 'hell be out in 2 months, while a thief will get 2 years', etc. Pretty typical moral chest beating.