United States: Rise in crime in Puerto Rico

Event

Police are working to contain rising crime levels as post-Hurricane Maria recovery efforts continue. The hurricane devastated the territory’s electricity and telecommunications infrastructure and the majority of the island remains without power. Police officials report that the lack of nighttime lighting, electric alarm systems, and telephone service has emboldened criminals. In recent weeks, police report that car break-ins have increased. 

Context

Hurricane Maria made landfall in Puerto Rico on September 20 as a Category 4 storm (scale of 1 to 5), causing severe flooding and wind damage as it passed over the island. Maria was the strongest hurricane to hit Puerto Rico in nearly 90 years and came as the island was still recovering from the recent passage of Hurricane Irma. As of October 21, nearly 90 percent of Puerto Rico remained without electricity and half of the island’s cell phone towers were out of service.

Advice

Individuals present in Puerto Rico are advised to remain vigilant, particularly at night, and to report suspicious behavior to the police.