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Page last updated at 17:03 GMT, Saturday, 15 November 2008

Murder suspect featured in game

Tatsuya Ichihashi
Japanese Police said the game's use of mug shots was socially unacceptable

The family of a murdered Warwickshire teacher have condemned a new internet game featuring her suspected killer.

Lindsay Ann Hawker, 22, from Brandon, was found dead in a bath tub in Tatsuya Ichihashi's flat in Tokyo last year.

He disappeared after the discovery of her body but is featured in an online game of Japan's most wanted fugitives.

The family said it was "really hurtful," but software maker Famista Inc said it was trying to help police raise the profile of all wanted men.

The family said it had not been consulted by the company about Slot Detective, which is styled on a typical slot machine game that replaces fruits with suspect's mug shots and is available free online.

Lindsay's mother, Julia said: "The whole thing is distasteful and not befitting Lindsay's memory.

"To make an entertainment game out of her murder is really hurtful to us as a family."

The National Police Agency of Japan also criticised the game and said the suspect's pictures should be used in a more "socially acceptable manner".



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SEE ALSO
Slot machine 'hunt' for fugitives
14 Nov 08 |  Asia-Pacific
Hawker family's plea over suspect
24 Oct 08 |  Coventry/Warwickshire
Hawker murder family renew appeal
24 Mar 08 |  Coventry/Warwickshire

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