"Pokemon Go" has taken over a Kissimmee park and police are working to control large crowds from going into nearby neighborhoods.
The Kissimmee Lakefront Park closes at 10 p.m., but players stay after-hours to play the game.
“Usually, Lakefront, without this game, was very dead,” said player Jaisen Tornillo. “It usually closes at 10, but still at 3 o’clock in the morning, there are still people walking around.”
Players said they use the park to catch new characters and battle Pokemon.
Some residents are not happy with the crowds.
“I had one walk by my window a couple nights ago and it freaked me out,” Jennifer Stevenson said.
She said her lawn has become a popular place for players.
“As far as I’m concerned, if they’re not bothering me, I couldn’t care any less what they play,” said resident Garry Roth.
Residents told Channel 9 about an uptick in police patrol and said some officers take part in the game and talk to the players.
“We’ve had police officers out here playing,” said Roth.
A police spokesperson said she was not aware of officers playing, but said, “Anytime an officer can talk with citizens about mutual interests, it builds a relationship and humanizes the badge.”
Police said they started working last week to make sure residents aren’t spooked or annoyed.
“Wednesday night they moved a lot of people,” Steven said.
Officers said they want to work with players instead of making arrests for being there with neighbors.
Cox Media Group
