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Stay alert while gaming, police department asks the public

Hypno taunts a player on a walk through the University of Northern Iowa's college campus. Players have a chance to catch augmented reality Pokemon in every day scenarios with the new game.  Press photo by Kate Hayden
Hypno taunts a player on a walk through the University of Northern Iowa’s college campus. Players have a chance to catch augmented reality Pokemon in every day scenarios with the new game.
Press photo by Kate Hayden

By Kate Hayden | khayden@charlescitypress.com

Residents who’ve noticed an increase in young pedestrians in Charles City likely have little to worry about.

“We probably get a couple calls a week. It’s just Pokemon Go players,” Charles City Police Chief Hugh Anderson said of the ‘suspicious persons’ reports being called into dispatch. “So far we’ve had no issues with them. Most of the time, they compare what level they’re on, depending on the officer responding.”

Pokemon Go, the augmented reality hit put out by game developer Niantic, is well-known nationally for draining phone batteries and turning people out in droves to catch the digital creatures introduced in 1997. Stories of what trouble game players have discovered –– or caused –– has also hit the national media, with stories varying from gamer injuries to trespassing lawsuits brought by homeowners unintentionally hosting a Pokestop on their property.

Browsers of Charles City’s police records might have noticed the game appear in a few items, but there’s been very few local problems, Anderson said.

“At this point it’s been a positive thing, it’s getting people out and helping us get more eyes and ears out. It helps deter crime whenever someone sees somebody walking around,” Anderson said. “We get numerous calls of somebody being suspicious, and it’s probably Pokemon Go.”

The game creates virtual ‘gyms’ out of well-traveled public landmarks, including the Floyd County Veterans Memorial and Andres Memorial Park, and lesser known public stops, such as the “Gift of Trees” public plaque along Riverside Drive’s walking path.

Trainers can also collect items aiding in catching or healing Pokemon at Pokestops, including the Lions Riverfront Park Gazebo, public artwork, one of the many area churches or at two spots outside the Charles City Public Library.

Trainers do not have to enter buildings to participate in Pokestops or gyms, and the app’s latest update urges users to stay out of “dangerous areas” while playing the game. Stops are designated within the app’s GPS walking map.

Cousins Karly Foster and Brianna Foster started playing as soon as the game dropped in app stores, and said they’ve enjoyed it more than previous versions of Pokemon games.

“For me, you’re Ash Ketchum somewhat,” Karly Foster said on a recent walk, referring to the main character in the original TV show. “We’ve spent more time outside. All my friends play it.”

“It’s better than the (previous) handheld versions. Instead of sitting, you just pull it out and walk,” Brianna Foster said.

While Anderson himself doesn’t play the game, he said a few officers are definitely know what they’re doing when they meet a fellow player.

Players should stay aware of their surroundings when they’re out, Anderson said, both for their safety and as a help to the community.

“Pay attention to your surroundings, we could use the help and the extra eyes,” Anderson said. “I don’t think here we’ve had anybody get an injury, but it could happen any time. Don’t get so caught up in the game.”

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