Reading Police Department Offering Self-Defense Course For Women

READING, MA — The Reading Police Department will offer free self-defense classes for women next month.

The RAD self-defense system focuses on teaching women quick, effective defenses to the most common attacks in domestic violence, sexual assaults and street assaults. Reading police have offered the course sine 1996.

The Reading Police Department RAD program has had more than 1,000 women participate since its inception 26 years ago. The program has remained free of charge, courtesy of donations and support from individuals and community groups. The department thanks the Women's League of Reading for their ongoing support.

The class will be taught in Reading over four nights:

• Monday, March 14 from 6 to 9 p.m.
• Wednesday, March 16, from 6 to 9 p.m.
• Monday, March 21, from 6 to 9 p.m.
• Wednesday, March 23, from 6 to 10 p.m.

"Rape Aggression Defense classes are a valuable resource that helps women protect themselves and build confidence," said Chief David Clark. "I'm thankful for the longtime support the Women's League of Reading has provided this program, and urge community members to participate."

Email Community Service Officer Kristen O'Shaughnessy at KOShaughnessy@ci.reading.ma.us, or call 781-942-6761 to sign up or get more information on the program.

For more information, visit: https://www.readingma.gov/public-safety/police-department/pages/rad-self-defense-program.