Police release Pokemon crime figures
Nearly a dozen 'pokemon' related crimes – including alleged acts of violence and sex offences – have been recorded by West Mercia Police in the last year.
The Pokemon Go game sparked a craze when it was launched last year, with millions of people using their smart phones to find virtual creatures hidden in all parts of the region.
But between July 13, 2016, and July 13 this year, West Mercia Police received 11 reports of crimes which were classed as being related to 'pokemon'.
Two of the reports resulted in the alleged offender being charged or summoned to court.
Three others reached a community resolution and in one case the suspect was under the age of criminal responsibility so could not be prosecuted.
In one of the reports, the suspect was accused of causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity by offering a reward of being given more pokemon, according to information released by West Mercia Police.
It added that a suspect was identified but "evidential difficulties" prevented further action.
The phrase "pokemon" was also recorded in alleged crimes of assault, attempted robbery, harassment and threats to kill.
Not all of the crime reports centred around the Pokemon Go game, with five made over the shoplifting of pokemon cards and a pokemon rucksack.
The information was released by West Mercia Police following a freedom of information request.
The Pokemon Go game also led to police issuing safety advice to gamers last year, which included being aware of surroundings and not to catch Pokemon while driving.
The game has diminished in popularity since its launch and the developers found themselves forces to refund visitors to the first Pokemon Go Fest after numerous complaints.
The event had been organised to celebrate the first anniversary of the game.
