Reading this thread for the first time. That's about as creepy as it can get, Jimmy. I live in the 'burbs of Metro-Detroit in a pretty good neighborhood, but there are pockets of low-income housing apartments in the area, so some interesting characters arise every now and again. Most of the people I've come across are great, but there are some sketchy ones no doubt. Look/stare at you in funny ways, talk to themselves, etc.
My buddy works at Home Depot, and he loves to tell anyone/everyone to install affordable home cameras. He got them for me cheap, so I installed them. Why not, what can it hurt.
I also have a 55lb dog, a husky. She is nice as can be, but I try not to let her interact with any of my neighbors if I can help it. I would rather her be viewed as a "big dog" than a fury friend. I put up a couple of "beware of dog" signs as well, even though anyone who broke in would have nothing to worry about, she's a baby. Can't hurt to add the illusion of danger and perhaps make a potential intruder think twice.
Long story short, I have had zero issues in 2 years at my residence. I'm not one to stereotype, and actually love interacting with people, But I'm also not naive to the fact that there are POS people out there. Better to be safe than sorry when it comes to the people and things you love.
Hope you resolved your situation and we hear an update soon.