Perhaps it was a tailor made account by the JWs to justify why they do what they do? Or to justify them calling the "shots" and get you to jump through their hoops to get accepted back in??
The parable of the prodigal son shows God's love and forgiveness - unlike the JW's teachings about coming to mtgs., etc. etc. etc. for a year +. In the meantime being treated like a pile of stinking garbage and being shunned.
Doesn't sound familiar to me. Sorry I can't be of help.
Juni