Personaly I know this person and he has an long history entering the country under visa exempt, nothing wrong with it, but now these times coming to an end. All Thailand is asking that you get a proper visa. He can still get a Tourist Visa n enter again, but should be prepared for the 3 items.
you refer to THEM, do you mean two people sneaked pass airport Immigration and left without paying the overstay? And TWO people came back, passed Immigration and both got 60days extension. If that is true than a trip to Immigration in your area is in order.