We're into a nearly six year recession (construction trade) in our area, so I'm not surprised some are using their skills to steal.

I'd say the thieves were very good woodsmen and probably very familiar with the site that large, in some way. How much time did it take and did they know that adequate time was available for the theft?

Unfortunately, there's a lot of advertising on outdoor sites, that tree stands and often not well hidden trail cams are available for the taking.

It should be a wake up call, that hunting items left behind, with no one observing, are sometimes easy pickings.

My rule was often hard to follow, but more than adequate. Carry it in; carry it out. Leave nothing behind to be seen that I was even there.

I hate thieves and the parting of my money; I don't underestimate them. I try to really avoid them like a plague.