It's unfortunate, and they are simply scum.
Bad part is, it lingered for so long and you had to put up with the effects of their actions.

Other than call the cops, post the dog outside for them things that go bump in the night... you did the best you could.

Now if that was around my house, they'd of heard the bolt bein thrown forward on my Colt AR and a stern warning of what would happen to them if they came back around.. then I'd a been on the phone with the cops as well. For us out my way, we're pretty rual, so sometimes we have to hold our own till the cops get there. Once thieves and druggies find they have no sanctuary,, they move on to "easier" areas for them to feel safe to do whatever it is they do.

Things I use:

Dog
Lot's of auto-trip/motion sensor lights and bright too (two 150 watt floods per assy)
Keep all vehicles locked (including boat)
Dont leave garage door open all the time for them "drive by thieves"
Keep the yard maintained as best as possible to notice any tampering. Sneak around my house at night an watch 2 acres of yard light up and then I let the dog out. If the dog has an issue, I grab a weapon.

Sorry to hear you have sh!tty neighbors.... eventually they will go away.