I picked them up and kept them. He called the police on me for "stealing food" and threatened to sue me. Will the police do anything? Does he have a case?
Good neighbors are good to have. I would apologize and ask if I could give him anything in return? Venison works very well but if you don't have that in the freezer maybe buy the old guy an apple pie.
Good relations with neighbors is paramount in what we do. Small kindnesses go a long way.
Can I ask? Why did you not return the apples? I would've picked them up and ate them as well. My dog loves apples also.
I sure wouldn't go to war with a neighbor over it.