13yr old brought to station for lighting a match and leaves caught on fire...

I got a call from local pd over a week ago that they had my son at the station he was playing with matches and some leaves caught on fire and someone passing by called fire/police. they said he was not arrested but i had to come pick him up and make me aware of what he did. Now i get a call from juevinelle detective saying my son had to options go to court before a judge or handle it in house..im confused my son was never arrested or charged with anything. if i go with his in house way my son would have to go to a fire prevention course which i might have to pay for write and he will have to write and essay i have to donate 500$ and he will attend a night court in town as a scare tactic..this all doesnt sit with me well. Should i take my chances in court?