Local Youth Take Part In NPD Self Defense Training

Officer Joy Paquette working with one of the participants in the youth self-defense training

Local Youth Take Part In NPD Self Defense Training

The Newaygo Police Department held its first ever youth self-defense class on December 2nd. 

Thirty-Six children  between 5 and 13 years old signed up and arrived at Newaygo Fitness Club with their parents where Officer Joy Paquette, assisted by 5 other officers helped them acquire  an array of techniques designed to help them better defend themselves during an   attack or attempted assault.

The training included a variety of...

​...strategies used to get away from potentially harmful situations.

“The children were so confident with the skills they learned, particularly the loud verbal commands, that people who arrived downtown early for the Christmas Walk activities could probably hear them shouting,” said Newaygo Police Chief Georgia Andres who organized the event.

“With the positive response we’ve had to this and our women’s self defense training we’re hoping to host the two trainings again in mid to late January,” added Chief Andres.

Those interested in the classes can contact the Newaygo Police Department at 231.652.1655 ext 214 to sign up.

“We want to give a special ‘thank you’ to Newaygo Fitness for providing the space for us to put on this class for our community’s children,” said Chief Andres.