Lesson from Female Victim who Fought off Attacker

Richland County, S.C. (WOLO) — Quick thinking by a would-be victim of sexual assault may have saved her life, say Richland County authorities. Richland County Sheriff Department women’s self defense instructor, ans spokesperson for the Department’s Victims Services division, Sgt. Maria Yturria, says a would-be sexual assault victim earlier this week, did many things right, possibly saving her own life. The first thing she did was make it known she was in danger. “She drew attention to herself,” said Yturria. According to sheriff’s deputies, the incident happened around 9:00 pm Wednesday in the 8700 block of Windsor Lake Boulevard in rRchland County. The female victim says she was walking her dog when she was attacked and thrown to the ground. After drawing attention to herself, Sgt. Yturria says the woman fought back. “When she saw the opportunity she began to fight back, screaming making a lot of noise; when the suspect heard other people coming is when he fled.” At the time of this report, the suspect had not been apprehended. However, one thing to keep in mind, if you’re caught in a situation like this, claims the sergeant, get the suspect’s DNA if at all possible. “…scratching, hair, skin cells, bodily fluid, so we can swab you in that area.” They’re all quick-thinking tips that could mean the difference between life or death. Sgt. Yturria will be hosting a free women’s self defense class on Saturday, June 14, at Brookland Baptist Church’s wellness center, from 9:00am to 1:00pm. You may email nducate@rcsd.net for more information. The class is open to female adults 18 years old and older. Sixteen and 17-year-olds are allowed to participate if accompanied by an adult.