ML,
Can Son-in-Law I.D. any of the subjects involved?
If so, (be advised that he may have to I.D. them in court many months down the road) can you not sign a complaint of Trespass and/or Theft with the County Prosecutor? You supply the description of the subjects, the vehicle description they were driving with the license plate number and what took place and the Pros. can find out who owns the vehicle and go from there.
This event should give you clues as to when, where and how some of the jerks are getting on your property and maybe give you some ideas to discourage it. You DO NOT want to commit any, crimes that will get you into trouble but....
you've got your hidden cameras, tires have been known to go flat on getaway cars, sometimes rocks fall out of the sky thru car windows.
I have no idea what kind of relationship you have with the Sheriff in that area or why he wouldn't take any action with the license plate number of vehicle used in the crime, but perhaps hiring a P.I. might be your only option at this point.
You might also consider talking to a local Atty.
Not a Real Estate, Tax or Corporate Atty, but one who deals with Criminal Law in the local courts. Not only can he advise you on your legal "rights" to keep you out of trouble but also there mayee be other ways to get these jerks into court. They did steal, or attempt to steal property that you can put a real $$$ amount on.
I hope you can find a way to get the thief(s) into the court system and get some relief from that kind of nightmare.
Dan
