US Virgin Islands Crime
St. Thomas Crime
Most official statistics and media reports about crime in the U.S. Virgin Islands show that this island has the highest overall crime rate. For this reason, most travel information and similar information from agencies on the island warn visitors to keep their jewelry and other valuable items safely stored in the safe at the hotel or in another secure location. If you drive during your visit to St. Thomas, it is always a good idea to lock the car doors and not leave valuables on the seats where they are tempting for someone walking by. Much of the crime is reported by law-enforcement agencies in the metropolitan area of Charlotte Amalie. This island, like the others, is generally a quiet, relaxing place outside of the heavily populated locations.
St. John Crime
In general terms, the crime rate on St. John is considerably lower than on St. Thomas. In fact, much of this crime is not of the life-threatening or serious variety. Law-enforcement agencies handle more small-scale theft and non-violent types of crime. But it's always wise to protect your valuable items - jewelry, cash etc. - taking only what you need when you move around the island. The rest should be secured in a safe at the hotel, if possible. Most of the advice from local officials urges visitors to take care just as they would in other populated areas. Car-jacking has been on the rise in some locations.
St. Croix Crime
Visitors to this island have sometimes returned home with horror stories about a crime incident. But the truth is St. Croix is a relatively safe place to visit and enjoy. If people take the same precautions they would take in less-populated areas elsewhere they should be safe. Law-enforcement statistics show that the bulk of serious crime occurs in highly populated areas such as Charlotte Amalie. This is no different than in the United States, the U.K. or any other country. Visitors do report there are more evident poverty and drug use on St. Croix. But with the proper precautions, visitors should be able to relax and enjoy their stay.
Water Island Crime
Most people are familiar with the names St. Thomas, St. John and St. Croix in the Virgin Islands, even if they haven't been to any of these wonderful islands. But not too many people know about Water Island, which became part of the U.S. Virgin Islands after the other three, well known locations. Water Island is near St. Thomas in Charlotte Amalie harbor. Crime rates overall are rather high but most crime occurs in heavily populated areas. Water Island is generally known as being quiet and relaxing. But travelers shouldn't leave valuable items unattended on the beach, in a car or even in the hotel room. Poverty and drugs are often root causes for crime activity. Generally, crimes against visitors rarely occur on Water Island.