A study has shown that neighborhoods near theme parks that are major tourist attractions are likely to have higher crime rates.
The study, which examined the geographical concentration of crime around Universal Studios in Orlando, Florida, found that crime rates increased by 198% in neighborhoods within a mile of the theme park.
The researchers found that crime rates increased by about 19% in areas with hotels, bars or restaurants. Findings of the study emphasized on the need for increased active policing strategies to address the effect of crime on tourists, local residents, businesses and police.
They argued that new approaches should be used in neighborhoods 'influenced' by Universal Studios, not just within and around the tourist attraction.
Lead author Dr. Alex Piquero from the University of Texas at Dallas said: "This study highlights an important relationship between theme park tourism and crime. Our results hold implications for understanding the relationship between tourism and crime, and for the practical implementation of police strategies."
"Theme park tourism stands to top record levels in successive years. These findings indicate the need for more active policing strategies, not only in the theme park areas but also more distant neighborhoods (sic) under the influence of the theme park," Dr. Piquero added.
Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) data revealed that crime rates in Orlando are dramatically higher than the national average. In 2017, a total of 6,198 violent and property crimes were reported in Orlando compared with 2,756 nationally.
Results revealed that the blocks where Universal Studios is located and areas nearby had higher crime rates than other parts of Orlando while crime rates fall by 14% for every kilometer further away blocks were from the theme park.
Piquero mentioned that the researchers believe that the presence of venues such as hotels increase crime rates because the number of potential victims, such as people on vacation who take less precautions with property and safety, also increases.
