as far as their law is concerned, this isn't any different. The officers are taking the children to school as is required by law. From what I read of the article and from what additional information Legolas has posted, it does not seem as if the children were in danger of actually being taken from the parents (beyond to school). Of course, I'm sure the parents would continue being fined.

And once again, why beg political asylum in the US? Why, when it's a much simpler move to Austria, where they could apparently home school to their heart's content (perhaps while they apply to live in the US through usual methods). Well, because a self-interested organization in the US wanted to generate media stir, of course!! Clever on the organization, I have to say.