B~
The local police department is a microcosm of the U.S. Military. In fact, they're just as ineffective and outdated. The military, who our finest like to imitate, can't wage the battle where the enemy is, or how the enemy dictates the terms of engagement. The cops look like a pompous military unit, but are defeated by guerilla tactics like nomad bands of thugs on an isolated trail. Sometimes I think our leaders lack the imagination and willpower to creatively use their resources in an effective way.
I'm sorry for the misery this creates for innocent neighbors, but the police could easily clean this up with small undercover units actively enforcing public safety. The police department is lazy, and by their passive/aggressive position are just as guilty as the criminals.
Those bullys better hope a vigilante with c.c. permit and a salty attitude doesn't patrol that trail. He might just take the cops up on their offer. "YOU FEEL LUCKY PUNK???WELL, DO YA???"