A California nonprofit's computers were once stolen only to be returned by the thieves.

That would also have arguably been more risky of a redemptive act than the right thing to do in this circumstance.

Referring to this? https://www.huffpost.com/entry/thieves-apology-note-san-bern...

I am not a crook, but sounds like it was a pretty high-skill thief. So relatively low risk - and catching & punishing that thief mighta been a pretty low priority for everyone from the on-shift cops to the most idealist juror.