Also post it in the Wyoming section, I know that alot of times from talking to the police when my garage was broken into last year, that things stolen in Wy make their way to Co, Ut, or Nb so I would figure stuff stolen in Co ends up here, Nm, Nb, or Ks. Just an idea.
Hope you find these scum bags, but take it from me this will not be the polices top priority, and pawn shop owners usually don't ask if some stole what they are selling or care if they did. And if they do find it your buddy will get the sh!t back after a year or so because the court keeps it as evidence until the case is solved!
Hopefully he had insurance and can just go out and by the stuff new, thats the easiest way to go anyway. Best of luck and I will keep an eye out up in the Snowies.