I was getting robbed repeatedly, so made it my hobby to get revenge. Me and some buddies spent three years on our "mission." Video-taped the crooks in action, even baited them so they'ed steal, on tape. So far, one guy ended up doing five years (police Major's son), one six months, one is in for twenty years (a cop's kid), two more for six months, and one got hisself shot dead (good riddance). All or partially because of our efforts.
Things I've learned from all this: You most likely know who ripped you off, but the people in your area won't be too interested in helping you catch them as they probrably bought your stuff. The Police are either participitants or relatives, and even if not, they don't give a damn about your stuff or you. Don't really on the police to help you, use them as errand boys only, they are good only for writing reports. Deal directly with the D.A. Finally, revenge IS SWEET!