There is really no such thing as a "safe place" anymore. Many of these thugs gain access to properties via the water late at night and have never been caught. It is easy to walk up the beach also and gain entry to villas etc... Many people here have experienced crime because of this. Being aware of your surroundings "helps" but it will not stop things from happening. Unfortunately this island is not the paradise it once was and this goes for many other places as well!My heart goes out to the good island people who have no choice but to live their lives always trying to avoid being attacked by crime. We love SXM and feel sad to hear of so many unfavorable happenings in recent years.