I suspect my nephews of theft. How do I talk to my brother about this?

Elswhere I described the theft of about $7000 worth of kayaks and gear. The extent of the theft of my outdoor back country and climbing kit has yet to be identified. I still need to inventory everything.

That the thieves knew what to take and what was stored in the shed points to the fact it was someone close. It would have been a coordinated effort to load everything onto and into multiple vehicles (they also stole a canoe). They also would have known my brother was not currently residing in the house and that the property was largely unattended. My thoughts then keep turning to the inclination to think at least one nephew and their friends are responsible.

Do I bite my lip, ignore my suspicions, and wait for the insurance to be worked out? Or should I be proactive and let my brother know my thoughts.

[seesaw]

Unless you have any proof, I'd keep it to myself. Those kind of accusations can destroy relationships.

I hear you on suspecting, but unless you have some real proof or evidence, and not just a hunch, I'd keep it to myself.

That really sucks to be in this position. And maybe your brother already suspects something?

Maybe there's a roundabout way to suggest it? Like, rather than suggest your nephew outright, say "You know, it seems to me that this had to be someone who knew you weren't around and where all the gear was located. Especially since it would have required some coordination to move everything. Is there anyone you can think of who might not be as trustworthy as you think?"

Leave it open ended rather than pointing at anyone in particular. I think that is as much as I would do.

Good luck. That really sucks.

Seesaw

[MickeyCheeky]

How do you think your brother would react if you told him this?

[Erebos]

I think without conclusive evidence you risk causing a rift in the family that may not be easily mended.
Although I am unfamiliar with the relationship you have with your brother.
What do you hope to achieve by voicing your beliefs?
What would you do once you told him?...I.e , go to the police?
How would things transpire if you turned out to be wrong?

Just a few things I feel might be worth considering.
It's a tough situation no doubt, that requires some thought.

[treevoice]

I agree with those who said that an accusation like that without any evidence could be a lot more heartache than it's worth. It may be better to simply tell your brother about the theft and maybe just ask broadly if he has any ideas of who it could have been - that way he has an opportunity to speak up if he's having similar suspicions but without making a direct accusation.

Good luck!

[Bill3]

Have you considered going to the police, or just relying on them?

Then it would be the police, not you, who identify the suspects.

Thank you all. You are right. Besides, it is quite possible the thought has already occurred to him.

The police are involved.

There would be no good way to broach the subject with my brother. I wrote this thread off the cuff when I was quite emotional about this.