If you didn't call the police to take the pot and document it, then you're likely not going to be able to use that as a basis for keeping the deposit.

Your tenants needed to escalate the issue immediately, regardless of the opinion of the responding police offers.  

They are usually quiet from what I have seen but here in ND the police don't contact the owner when they enter the property and if you find out they did and try to find out why they won't tell you.  

Noise disturbances are passed on to those who are responsible to deal with them - the police.

You may require the tenant to request a report on her/himself and authorize the police to share the results with you.    

She didn't have any direct descendants, but had 3 nieces and 2 nephews.  

The police?  

We have given USAA everything they've asked for including all paperwork, police reports, contractor's estimates and other supporting documentation (e.g. ownership of stolen appliances).

Check with the local Police Dept in any area you are considering to "Door Knock" There may be some local and or state ordinance that would consider your approach as Trespassing or Door to Door Solicitation. 

Want to give all of you an update: We called police early morning yesterday.