I'm thinking that there's a more simple explanation for why many game cameras get stolen.

Ok, so you're trespassing on posted private land which is where 99% of game cameras are placed. You look up and notice that a game camera has just snapped your pic. There's one sure way to prevent the owner from getting your picture. Most folks might not think to simply take the SD card.

Just a thought.

It sure sucks about your son's camera and of course, now you're naturally going to be hesitant about placing another one there. HEY, maybe that's it. Put a cheap one out in the open and camouflage another in range of that to photo the theif!