I do not own a stand, climber , ladder or hang on that is not locked to the tree with a heavy guage steel cable and lock. You can find some like what I use @ Home Depot. The cables come in different lengths and are plastic coated to be quiet and the locks are built into the cable. It is all one piece. I have never had a stand stolen, and I believe that is why. Knock Wood.

As far as to the idea of " did you do the right thing " , yes and no. I applaude you and your dad for not doing more. Self restraint is a good personalitytrait to have. But your dad did do something ( though it was minor ) and you do not even know if that was the same person. If it wasn't, no! They are probably walking around telling people how some lousy, sorry son-of -a-gun did them wrong and ruined their hunting. Thay are complaining about how sad it is when hunters can't trust other hunters. Or it might have been some kids stand who was going to get to hunt for the first time, by himself, like you, and it was ruined. Was it the same person? Probably, but you don't know for sure.

ANd even if it was .... If a man takes your coat, give him your cloak too or if a man slaps you in the face, turn and show him the other cheek....Sayeth the Lord.

Also, Vengance is mine sayeth the Lord.

I hope the rest of your season get better.

Good hunting
God Bless