Pokémon Go player Tased, arrested for refusing to leave Tampa park

TAMPA (FOX 13) - A man was zapped with a stun gun and arrested Thursday night after police say he refused to leave Ballast Point Park because he was playing the gaming app Pokemon Go.

Around 10:30 p.m., Tampa police say they responded to a trespassing complaint in the park after closing time. When officers arrived they, found about 150 people in the park playing the virtual game.

Police tell FOX 13 everyone was told to leave the park. David T. Mastrototaro-Baermude was asked several times to leave, but continuously refused. Officers attempted to arrest him when, they say, he grabbed an officer's arm and pushed off. Police say he continued to resist arrest so they used a Taser on him.

Mastrototaro-Baermude, 20, was arrested and charged with trespassing and resisting arrest.

Tampa police say they want to remind Pokemon gamers of a few simple safety tips:

1. Pay attention to your surroundings while playing (i.e. lookup, don't walk into traffic).

2. Keep in mind that not everyone is playing the game so don't trespass on private property or enter restricted areas (like city parks after closing time).

3. If you're playing at night, be sure to be visible.

4. Be cautious of strangers.

5. Don't play while driving!