Since spring break season is only months away, I want to remind potential vacationers about the tragic incidents where deadly collateral damage is pointed at innocent victims...those poor souls who just wanted to experience the time of their life somewhere in paradise.
Women, please refresh your memories or educate yourself by looking into these types of cases before making any final decisions on where you wish to travel.
The Caribbean is not as safe as everyone seems to think. And remember...we're not all saints. Think of your last vacation...were you more carefree than usual? Statistics show that when one is on vacation it is more likely 'caution will be thrown to the wind' and normal personal guards are let down or disappear. This is when the predators (A large majority being locals) will prey on that vacation naivety.
Women, please refresh your memories or educate yourself by looking into these types of cases before making any final decisions on where you wish to travel.
The Caribbean is not as safe as everyone seems to think. And remember...we're not all saints. Think of your last vacation...were you more carefree than usual? Statistics show that when one is on vacation it is more likely 'caution will be thrown to the wind' and normal personal guards are let down or disappear. This is when the predators (A large majority being locals) will prey on that vacation naivety.
Some time ago, I had a post on the case of Rebecca Middleton who was raped and murdered while vacationing in Bermuda. (SEE HERE and a follow up post HERE).
Just recently a reader stumbled upon Rebecca's story and wrote a very sad and heartfelt story of her own rape while vacationing in Bermuda. I feel that her comment must come out for more readers to see. It should remind all women to think carefully before deciding to leave the country on spring break.
If you must leave the country. Learn the laws. Do your homework. Ask yourself questions such as, "Who would I call in an emergency?" "Where is the police department located and what is the number?" "Who is the U.S. Consulate?" "What are they responsible for?"
Don't be a victim.
I'm certainly not saying to avoid traveling abroad. We shouldn't be scared by limiting ourselves in life out of fear. Situations such as these do not happen to everyone...but knowledge is power and safety is survival.
From Anonymous:
As a tourist visiting Bermuda in the summer of 2003, I was raped in Hamilton. The police treated me as though I had committed the crime. It was humiliating and horrifying. I am fortunate to have lived through the ordeal and my heart goes out to the family of Rebecca Middleton.
The incompetence of the Bermudian athorities is blatant and repugnant.
It is a tragedy that this information is kept secret enough for people to unknowingly send their daughters on vacation to a place we are not valued or kept safe from harm.
I am quite certain my rapist is still walking freely around Bermuda as the police there did little or nothing to persue him. Perhaps one day reform will come and there will be justice for Miss Middleton.
In the meanntime on a very small island filled with unsuspecting tourists (many of them young girls exposed to alcohol) there are at the very least three brutal rapists roaming free to repeat their crimes (and as sexual deviants often do) are likely to do so.
I share this information in hopes that perhaps one more person will decide to vacation elsewhere.
Bermuda is dangerous.
FACTS FROM U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE
ON BERMUDA
ON BERMUDA
CRIME: Bermuda has a moderate but growing crime rate. Recent crime statistics can be viewed a the official website of the Bermuda Police Service:
http://www.police.bm/ Examples of common crimes include theft of unattended baggage and items from rental motorbikes, purse snatching (often perpetrated against pedestrians by thieves riding motorbikes), mugging, and theft from hotel rooms. Valuables left in hotel rooms (occupied and unoccupied) or left unattended in public areas are vulnerable to theft.
The Consulate regularly receives reports of thefts of money, valuables, and passports and advises that travelers keep their hotel windows and doors locked at all times. Criminals often target transportation systems and popular tourist attractions.
Travelers should exercise caution when walking after dark or visiting out-of-the-way places on the island, as they can be vulnerable to theft and sexual assault, and because narrow and dark roadways can contribute to accidents. There have been incidents of sexual assault and acquaintance rape, and the use of "date rape" drugs such as Rohypnol has been reported in the media and confirmed by local authorities; one local advocacy group reports an increase in reporting the use of these drugs and accompanying sexual assault.
Travelers should also note an increase in gang presence in Bermuda and should take regular precautions to avoid confrontation. The back streets of Hamilton are often the setting for nighttime assaults, particularly after the bars close.
INFORMATION FOR VICTIMS OF CRIME:
INFORMATION FOR VICTIMS OF CRIME:
The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. If you are the victim of a crime while overseas, in addition to reporting to local police, please contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate for assistance. The Embassy/Consulate staff can, for example, assist you to find appropriate medical care, contact family members or friends and explain how funds could be transferred.
Although the investigation and prosecution of the crime is solely the responsibility of local authorities, consular officers can help you to understand the local criminal justice process and to find an attorney if needed. Posts in countries that have victims of crime assistance programs should include that information. See our information on Victims of Crime.
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