The charges would not stick if they were charging him with destruction of property. But they’re charging him with attempted destruction of property. The difference is that if he believed he was destroying a real camera (which he admitted to them), then the attempt was real, even if he failed.
I agree it’s stupid that the police are spending time and resources to bait someone into attacking a fake camera, though. Especially when their jurisdiction is actively discussing removing them.
I mean, basic first aid for animals and people is pretty much the same. If they aren’t conscious, make sure they’re breathing. If not, administer CPR. Try to stop any active bleeding. Keep them still and warm until help arrives.
If anything, animals are more complicated. Ever try to do CPR on a dog?