: The story was based on real instances of "alternative sentencing" where children were tethered to parents.
: Written by George Meyer and Mike Scully and directed by Mark Kirkland . I Simpson 13x2
: The episode features the song "(Don't Fear) The Reaper" by Blue Öyster Cult. The Simpsons: Season 13, Episode 2 | Cast and Crew : The story was based on real instances
: This episode features the debut of Judge Constance Harm , voiced by Jane Kaczmarek . The Simpsons: Season 13, Episode 2 | Cast
: As punishment for cutting the tether, Homer and Marge are placed in wooden stocks by the roadside. They eventually attempt to get revenge by sinking Judge Harm's houseboat. The family is nearly sent to jail until Judge Snyder returns from vacation and dismisses the case with the verdict "boys will be boys". Production & Trivia
: The punishment forces Bart to accompany Homer everywhere, including to work and Moe's Tavern. Friction peaks when the tether interferes with Homer and Marge’s private life, leading Marge to cut the cord with a knife.