Probably not, and that's the human reality this scenario captures.

Once someone's been caught and loses power, their promises carry little weight because:

**The incentive structure changed, not the character:**
- They're cooperating because they *have to*, not because they've genuinely changed
- The moment they regain power, the old behavior often resurfaces
- Desperation ≠ transformation

**Trust requires consistent behavior over time:**
- One negotiated agreement after years of harm doesn't erase the pattern
- You'd need to see different behavior *when they have the ability to bully again*
- Words under duress are cheap

**The pragmatic approach:**
- Protect yourself structurally (don't give them back the power to hurt you)
- Don't negotiate from emotion—verify any agreement is binding
- Set clear consequences for violations
- Stay skeptical

This applies beyond bullying too—to business disputes, relationships, or any power imbalance. When someone only behaves differently because they're forced to, skepticism is rational, not cynical.

The lesson: Real change is demonstrated through freedom to do wrong while choosing not to—not through promises made under pressure.

Would you actually trust them in this scenario, or would you keep your guard up?