Since you don't say how old they are or if they have past criminal records I'll add that forgiveness is my way of not letting a negative feeling control my actions. For sure they need to take responsibility for their actions as we all do. If they are young then for me that responsibility could be like Muirenn's idea about community service and also probation rather than having a felony on their record which has some serious complications on their lives.

In any case do what YOU feel is right regarding talking to the police/prosecutors about your thoughts!!! I've had a couple of cheap personally built up city bikes stolen. My first thought was I hoped the thief would take care of the bike and appreciated the work I put into it ....then I just let the situation turn into my building up another cheap city bike and moving forward.

Glad you got your bikes back!!!!!!!!