The Swatara Township Police Department helped sponsor a women's self defense class this passed weekend with the Swatara Karate Academy, lead by John Cassatt.  We would like to thank everyone who attended to make this a successful event.  A big THANK YOU to John Cassatt and all of his assistants from the Swatara Karate Academy, as well as Dauphin County's Chief Deputy District Attorney Jennifer Gettle.  This course was designed for beginners and focused on showing basic tactical maneuvers that someone could use to get away from an assailant.  We also discussed what Pennsylvania law states about using self-defense.  If anyone is interested in learning more about self defense tactics or would like to take a class we would encourage you to reach out to your local martial arts studio to see if one is offered near you.  The Swatara Karate Academy does offer free karate lessons every Monday and Wednesday evening starting at 7:30pm at the Swatara Township Municipal building.  We hope to hold another self defense class sometime in the Fall this year, so stay tuned to our department's web portal for any updates.