They took advantage of some things and the people did not like it. You will find the people of Vieques to be very friendly and happy to have you visit. I make it once or twice a year myself. Petty Theft is common. Do not leave anything unattended that you will miss.
Violent crime is almost non-existent.
The most troublesome thing I find, is the Roosters. The island is so quite that they are the loadest sound around. In fact you can here the sound of Roosters go around the island.