Corporal Roger Williams of the Ocho Rios Police Department gives sound advice regarding delinquency in Ocho Rios. According to Williams, harassment in Ocho Rios is higher than in other places due to the large squatter settlements around town that support thousands of people from neighboring parishes. St. Ann is the poorest parish, even though you wouldn't necessarily notice because it's well developed, and many come to Ochi in search of opportunity that doesn't always surface in the formal economy.
Hustlers tend to be more aggressive here than in other parishes, and Williams recommends greeting advances with a smile, followed by clear communication demonstrating your lack of interest. Ignoring advances is not wise, he says, as it can make the hustler upset. It is not uncommon for people to follow tourists, touting any and every kind of service, tour, or drug. According to Williams, crack use is generally confined to street people, while tourists are often offered cocaine and, most frequently, marijuana. Williams reminds that all drugs are illegal in Jamaica. Prostitution is very apparent in Ocho Rios, and it's not uncommon for women to solicit cruise ship passengers in full view of the police. Williams noted that while prostitution is illegal, it is rarely prosecuted. Many parts of Ocho Rios can feel unsafe at night, and it is indeed best not to go out alone--parts of downtown, like James Avenue, can be desolate late at night. Petty theft is common, and it's not unheard of for tourists to feel threatened. Women especially should be accompanied walking around town at night.
Behind the inevitable theatrics used by hustlers to get the attention of unassuming visitors, there is a down-to-earth Jamaican sincerity that will often surface by entertaining advances with a "No, thank you," or "I'm all set, thanks, bredren . . . " Should undesired suitors not be placated with that, or should they react in a less-than-honorable manner, it's important to remember they represent a small minority of Jamaicans; the majority understand the value of hospitality as a cultural and economic virtue central to the Jamaican idiosyncrasy and the tourism industry alike.