What is ‘Crime Tourism’?

'Crime tourism' is an emerging trend where criminals travel beyond their home regions specifically to commit thefts and burglaries. Here is some key information about Crime Tourism:

• This trend has been linked to international criminals, specifically from South America, who target affluent neighborhoods in the United States.
• The criminals engage in organized theft, often focusing on upscale homes, looking for cash, jewelry or designer items.
• Some of these criminals are known to rent expensive cars in order to blend in with the wealthy neighborhoods they target.
• They typically strike during daylight hours or in the early evening when homeowners may be away, often carefully surveilling the targeted properties before breaking in.
• Authorities have noted that these criminals often come to the U.S. through the visa waiver program and are therefore hard to track or punish.
• An alarming increase in such incidents has been observed, not just in coastal but also in central regions of the US.
• To protect oneself from such criminal activities, homeowners are advised to use security systems, keep their lights on, be cautious with their open windows and doors, and report any suspicious activity.

Please note that 'Crimes against tourists' is different from 'Crime Tourism', as the former refers to crimes committed against tourists who are regarded as easy, lucrative targets.

[1] 'Crime tourism' likely hitting San Diego homes - 10News.com

[2] Organized crime 'tourists' strike homes in America's heartland

[3] Crimes Against Tourists

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