Flip,
Of course we hear the local gossip. The Negril rumor mill is always active! But there is never any point to post these rumors as they mean nothing. Facts are facts, rumors are not.
The local economy is tourism based here in Negril, so yes, the local residents do take a serious look at those who try and hurt their interests as anyone would. And contrary to what some seem to think, the police are quite active in trying to apprehend those who do harm.
