Originally Posted by Ron Bennett

Firstly, the stolen security footage would have greatly helped. Next time, consider automatic real-time / batched uploading of the footage to a remote server...

But this is not full-proof, since the thieves could cut the network connection and/or the power - a UPS may keep your computers running, but likely won't keep your connection going unless it's on a UPS too, which adds costs. And that assumes the thieves don't cut the network connection, which may then necessitate having a backup network connection too...

So many variables doing automated security footage upload - though another option is having two separate security systems that appear as being one in the same ... in such a setup, it's likely the thieves will steal some of the footage, but thinking they have it all, inadvertently leave some footage behind. The costs of doing security effectively rapidly gets expensive ... for many, it's easier / cheaper to do the basics and have good insurance just in case.

Even if the police did arrest the suspects and, assuming, they were convicted, most likely they'd get little to no prison time.

Prevention (locked doors & secure windows) / deterrence (dog / firearm) / insurance (ideally, replacement value coverage) is the answer to dealing with property crimes - don't count on the police. Not saying the police can't help, but often even if they do, the thieves will like get little to no prison time anyways.

Even big business, while they'll often get better police response, at the end of the day, will usually just seek recovery through their insurance carrier and move on.

Ron