This reader and iPhone user complains about Apple not offering a subsidised phone after theft:

Signal and disruption with iPhone and AT&T frequent.
AT&T and APPLE have a contract that does not have provisions for theft. Therefore, even if the theft is reported. Apple on purpose has a contract in place which forbids consumers to get the intro price. Consumers have to pay full price of $399 + . Apple again if people recall had to apologize when they initially gave $100 rebates to consumers which upset the customers that were the first wave. APPLE cares very little about their customers. The media packages is mandatory so customers are forced to pay over $70 a mo.