I don't think someone being a thief makes them cowardly, and thus not open to coming back and throwing a brick through your window in retaliation.

A thief is already open to the idea of invading your personal space for gain, why not revenge?

Think of it this way: You have made a 100 to 200 pound large hairless ape angry at you. This creature has human intelligence, and no interest in your feelings or your safety. Rather, it wants to make you suffer. It's more capable than the most advanced robot, and may hold onto its grudge and plan revenge over the next several months or a year.

Who wants to sign up for that?

imagine if this bomb goes off in a cholo's lowrider how much worse it would become for you.