[stripminer]

I give a return of stolen property about a 15% chance. I know it is low. A big reason for this is most thieves are junkies, they convert the items to cash or drugs almost immediately.
Another reason for this low number is simply that it is hard to find a suspect in a random theft. If you and I wanted to steal something of value all we would have to do is pick a target and carefully steal it. Now, if we want to start a crime wave we better be more careful, sooner or later the law will catch up to us.
In my professional opinion people as a whole should report crime to their local police or the perceived "random" theft that is actually part of a "crime wave" is never linked or investigated, allowing the criminal(s) to "work" uninhibited.
Imagine if MJ were to not press charges, he might get his gear back from the perpetrators through some type of arrangement. In turn those responsible can continue to fuel their drug habit or larcenous ways. Other people will suffer this decision.
The second scenario includes MJ reporting the crime. He, again, may recoup his losses. Those responsible will be identified to the local police, they in turn will most likely do search warrants for their homes and vehicles. The police may find evidence of other thefts. Other victims may get their gear back. The responsible parties will be prosecuted. The police will also then be "in tune" with those suspects for future incidents.
I really want MJ to do what HE feels is right. I am not on a soapbox. I mean only to inform. The opinions contained within this post reflect those of the author. Now I hope to hear about fishing, repairs and happy thoughts.

BTW MacoJoe, I just got the Garmin 172c chartplotter it is mint !!! I highly recommend it.

- Tom