They were guilty of stupidity in trying to chase a fleeing felon, rather than following at a distance.
The “jogger” was a burglar. Why do we just hear that he was a football player in high school, and hear nothing about what his current employment was?
The "jogger" was a felon, convicted of robbery, and was in violation of his parole. There was a warrant out for his arrest. Perhaps that was why he reacted so violently to the McMichaels confrontation.
And yes, I believe he was probably casing the neighborhood for possible burglary opportunities. That might not quite deserve a death sentence by any reasonable judgement. Although I bet the residents are happier that he won't be back.