SOUTHWICK – The Southwick Police Department is gearing up to host another session of R.A.D. (Rape Aggression Defense) classes, starting November 14. The classes will be from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. every Wednesday for five weeks and are free to participate in. The classes are held to a maximum of 10 people.
The R.A.D. classes are for women only and girls that are in high school. Instructed by Southwick Police officers David Massai and Ernie Malone, the program helps empower women on ways to increase their options of self-defense.
“It’s a big commitment (participants) on their part,” said Malone.
Southwick Police Department. (WNG File Photo)
A press release from the Southwick Police Department describes what the department sees in this program.
“The Southwick Police Department’s mission of R.A.D will be to establish an accessible, constantly improving, and respected alliance which allows the instructing Officers an opportunity to provide educational opportunities in hope they may create a safer future. In doing this, the Southwick Police Department openly challenges society to evolve into an existence where violence is not an accepted part of daily life.”
“Myself and officer Massai feel that it’s important for women to know this stuff,” said Malone.
Chief Kevin Bishop encourages local women to consider signing up for the classes.
“I would encourage any female to take this very important class. I firmly believe you’ll find it very worthwhile and what you learn in the class may someday save your life,” said Bishop. “Officer Massai and Officer Malone, I truly believe, are two of the best trained officers to be teaching this very important safety class.”
Any woman interested can pick up an application in the lobby of the Southwick Police Department or sign up by contacting Massai at 413-569-5348, ext. 521 or emailing him at [email protected]. If anyone would like to sponsor the classes, they can reach out to Massai.
