Watch: Preventing Sexual Assault
Richland Co. (WOLO) — According to the Richland County Sheriff’s Department 300 sexual assault cases were reported in 2015.
It only takes a few seconds to become a victim.
“It happens in all ages, it happens with people that you know, people that you’re comfortable with and accustomed to being around,” Detective Jerry Maldomado explains.
Sexual assault is something that can happen to any one in any location.
“They’re either out at a club and having some drinks or it could be a family member or a friend that that comes over, one thing leads to another,” says Detective Maldomado
That’s why it’s so important to be ready.
Sergeant Maria Yturria tells ABC Columbia, “We don’t want them to be paranoid, but to understand that what looks normal and what doesn’t look normal within the areas that they live in and that they shop at.”
The department regularly hosts self defense courses where the emphasizes physical reaction techniques to fight off attackers.
The Sergeant says, “If somebody is walking behind you and they grab you like this one of the easy ways to get out of it to swing your hand backwards.”
Knowing the techniques is important but preventing unsafe situations is even more critical.
Detective Maldomado says, “If you can just be with other friends. Make sure you let your friends know where you’re going. just be careful about what you’re doing make sure that you’re out in the open.”
RCSD will be holding a women’s self defense class on Saturday. Click the link below to register:
http://www.rcsd.net/inv/vicassistance.htm
