We just came back from St. Maarten. I never heard or saw of any unusual criminal activity. We drove all over the island, parked our car on the street, in parking lots, etc and never had any problems BUT it was always in full view of traffic, in a busy area, during the daylight, etc etc. I would recommend going to beaches where there are people around as opposed to isloated ones. As an example, at one of the beaches that we go to there are always has a couple of locals who rent out beach chairs, umbrellas, etc for $15 for the day AND they also keep an eye on the parking lot (as that is where they wait and ask you if you want to rent the items when you exit your car.) Years ago there were actuallly guards there with heavy guns and everyone was advised to keep the car unlocked so that the thiefs would not damage the locks breaking in. This is no longer the case - just locals now guarding the lot AND everyone is now advised to lock their cars. About half the people seem to rent the chairs, the rest dont but the parking lot does appear to be secure. Be careful as a rule - you know your own city and know where to go and where not to go - the same is true for a foreign port - there are good places and there are places to avoid.