Dude probably could have recovered a portion if he didn't try to strong-arm the guy infront of other people.
"Please"
"Finders Fee"
"How can we work this out"
I didn't see any of those approaches.
Edit: I did see a lot of
"Theif"
"Calling the Police"
"Felony charges"
When dude tried strong-arming infront of others, other dude naturally felt compelled not to appear 'weak'.
I disagree. If the thief is dishonorable enough to steal this from somebody else who is already extending himself by offering him a service at no charge, I don't see how talking about a "finder's fee" is going to make that much of a difference. If a rapist feels entitled to rape you just because he happens upon an unhindered opportunity, is "how can we work this out" going to make much of a difference? Maybe you can negotiate it down to just a kiss or a grope?