I think what you is decided would be for the good of the board and fully supported by all. I think you should lock it down at 999 and prevent any other thread from attempting this kind of rule 5 violation agian.
In addition, I propose that any one, aside from the moderators that is, have 999 posts deducted from their count as punishment. Let us set an example that will light the way for the next 10,000 posts!