Originally Posted by
kemmer
I'm sorry, but I really don't think you understand the way these things work. People always respond in kind. Force is almost universally met with force, UNLESS the person on the receiving end is unable to do so. That is why when a cop decides it's necessary to disable an individual, they do so in a fairly brutal manner. That's why when they decide they need to fire a weapon at someone, they shoot to kill.
If you decide to detain someone for stealing your bike, you better understand that unless you completely overwhelm them you are likely to be injured (or worse). And for the love of God, PLEASE don't rely on strangers to step in and help if things get out of hand.
I understand it's pretty unnecessary to choke anyone, for anything unless they physically assault you or someone else.
I wouldnt expect "some hipster kid" to be one to put up a fight over a stolen bike, I think had the OP grabbed an arm and said "hey, give me my bike" the kid probably would have argued it's his, at which time the OP would have asked the kid to provide the lock keys, and the problem would have been solved.