Yes, it is true. Jamaica is fraught with crime and at times violence, just as one would see anyplace there is poverty in USA. And like USA, poverty does not always result in crime and violence. Skip the tourist hot spots and check out the South side of Jamaica. Go to the Tranquility Bay area, the little resorts are safe and friendly. Jakes and Treasure Beach are the best kept secrets on this island. I have and will return.