Methods to cut cables, however, are far more conventional.

The thief didn't pick the lock, he cut the cable. Never rely on a cable to secure your whole bike. Cables can be cut in seconds and a bike can be tossed into a truck in a few more. Cutting U-locks takes much larger equipment and causes much more commotion.

Sorry to hear. Definitely follow up with police and see if insurance, or your parents' homeowners insurance, will cover the loss.