I tell you now if someone injured or even tried to injure one of my dogs with a shovel they would be wearing the shovel as a perminent fixture in there skull, I sure don't blame you for loosing it.
As to the neighbors kid, ask him nicely not to bounce the ball of the fence as it is disturbing your peace, upsetting your dogs and is a damaging the fence, if he ignores you speak to the parents. If they refuse do do anything complain.
I am glad the guy who kicked the puppy is up on charges, I hope he goes to jail and during his stay shares a cell with Bubba, hopefully he will recieve the same treatment, what a jerk, I hope they took the puppy away.