OPINION: Cape Charles’ Tourist Image vs. Community Safety – Are We Doing Enough to Protect Residents?

As Cape Charles continues to position itself as a charming tourist destination with its picturesque beaches, historic architecture, and small-town allure, it’s worth asking: how safe is our community for those who live here year-round?

This question took center stage at the recent Town Council meeting, where a local resident revealed that her sister has been stalked by a predator for nearly two decades, a threat that she says has recently escalated. She described a life marked by psychological manipulation, intimidation, and fear, warning that the predator still lives within Cape Charles, a place often promoted as a tranquil getaway.

This unsettling revelation comes on the heels of other safety concerns, including a reported rape in a park restroom in 2015, which raised serious questions about whether the town’s commitment to maintaining its postcard-perfect image is overshadowing the very real need for community safety.

Tourism vs. Transparency

Cape Charles relies heavily on tourism to drive its economy, attracting visitors to its waterfront parks, boutique shops, and historic streets. This influx of vacationers brings significant revenue, but it also presents unique challenges. Are we sacrificing transparency about public safety to preserve the town’s carefully curated image?

It’s a difficult balance. Town officials undoubtedly want to protect the area’s reputation, but failing to address safety concerns can have long-term consequences. Full-time residents have a right to feel secure, and tourists should be aware of potential risks, not just the highlights featured in travel brochures.

Community Accountability

It’s time for Cape Charles to confront the uncomfortable reality that picturesque views and charming storefronts alone do not make a community safe. Real action is needed, from more aggressive enforcement and protective orders to open discussions about public safety and accountability. As a resident or visitor, if you see something, say something–law enforcement has its hands tied without the data.

If we genuinely want to create a community where both residents and visitors can feel safe, we must be willing to prioritize safety alongside economic growth. That means listening to those who raise the alarm, investing in prevention, and ensuring that our public spaces are really secure.

Cape Charles, known for its small-town warmth and waterfront charm, can and should be a safe place for all. But that will require more than just marketing. It will require action.