Clovis PD has received several calls for service, and at least one confirmed robbery in relating to the new “Pokemon Go” game. We’d like to take this opportunity to inform both players & residents of safety reminders, and laws.
What Is “Pokemon Go”?
-This is a new game by Nintendo for your smart phone. It’s a real life scavenger hunt game that sends the players out into the real world to walk and run around until they find various virtual creatures. It has become an overnight sensation, especially for teenagers and young adults.
-The game is played 24 hours a day, and has it’s players walking around looking to collect the virtual characters.
-It’s interfaced with your camera, and GPS location, so players are usually looking at their phones.
Attention Players-
-Going onto private property without the owner’s permission is considered trespassing. This includes front yards, and especially back or side yards.
-Curfew for those under the age of 18 is 10:00 P.M.
-Wear bright colored clothing if playing at night. A flashlight will also make yourself more visible.
-Pay attention while walking, and look up from your phone to look both ways before entering a street.
-Always know where you are (cross streets, addresses, etc) in case of an emergency, so you can tell us where you need help.
-Watch your surroundings! Confirmed cases of robberies have occurred where the suspect will approach and steal property you have on you, including your phone. Our last confirmed robbery was just yesterday (7/10) where the suspects punched the victim and stole their cell phone while the victim was playing the game early morning before sunrise.
-Always “play” with at least someone else, and preferably an adult.
Attention Residents-
-We have received several calls from residents regarding unknown people walking around, acting “suspicious”.
-Players that we have had contact with always have a cell phone, usually in their hand, and are walking or running in the area trying to find their virtual character before someone else does. Most players are with at least another person, and are sometimes in small groups.
-Regardless if you believe someone is playing a game, or acting suspicious to possibly commit a crime, call us if you would like an officer to respond to check the area. Have the location, description of the person(s), and what they are doing to make you think it’s “suspicious”.
As always, we are here for you anytime you need us at 911 for emergencies, and 559-324-2800 for non-emergencies.
