gpburdell

Any device is likely to have a purchase cost, though TMO did have a free-with-24-months-bill-credits promo on the device earlier this year.

Calling the police may have mixed results. In a rural or low-density suburban area it'd be easier to identify the specific residence and get the police to obtain a search warrant. With multi-unit buildings the tracker isn't going to give the specific unit. See the various mixed experiences people have had with phone & computer location tracking (FindMy and equivalents). Sometimes it works out, often it doesn't.

... and that's even assuming the thief didn't immediately locate and disable the tracker.

While I'm not suggesting a tracker is useless - since it could aid in recovery - I'd caution against assuming it is a guarantee. Might be better to put the money towards an appropriate insurance rider.