Decatur Police Department to host free self-defense classes for women

DECATUR — The Decatur Police Department will be offering its Rape Aggression Defense (R.A.D) training course this summer to provide crucial safety information that could prevent a possible assault.

There is no cost to attend the training. Each course will be capped at eight students. 

Class dates are: 

• June 9-11, 9 a.m. – noon
• June 30, July 1-2, noon – 3 p.m.
• July 7-9, 4–7 p.m.
• July 14-16, noon – 3 p.m.
• July 29-31, 4-7 p.m.

The R.A.D. class will be divided into three consecutive training sessions. Participants are expected to attend all three classes.

Instruction will be hosted in three-hour blocks by certified R.A.D Instructor SRO R. Bradley. Classes will be hands-on, as participants will actively practice self-defense tactics and techniques. Gym attire is requested. Additional items to consider: athletic shoes, water bottle, sweat towel.

R.A.D’s course objective is to develop and enhance the options of self-defense so they may become viable considerations to the woman who is attacked. 

These classes may be considered physically demanding by some, but women of all abilities are encouraged to register. Classes are open to women and girls ages 12 and up. Participants will be contacted by SRO R. Bradley for location details prior to class date.

An information form and a hold harmless release must be completed for class admission. Forms are also available at the Decatur Police Department front desk.

Applications and hold harmless agreements for June sessions are due to the front desk of the Police Department by May 23.

Applications and hold harmless agreements for July sessions are due to the front desk of the Police Department by June 20.

For questions about the program, contact:

SRO R. Bradley, [email protected], 256-341-4660; or Sgt. R. Sutherlin, [email protected], 256-341-4657.