Citizens Turn To Self-Defense in Face of Violent Crime Increase

Murders in the United States jumped 4.8 percent last year, and overall violent crime was up 2.5 percent for the year, marking the largest annual increase in crime in the United States since 1991, according to figures released June 12th by the FBI.

Local martial arts instructor, Gary Grant Jr., didn't need a study to tell him the world is getting more threatening; he's seen a steady increase in the number of people enrolling into his self-defense courses over the past year. Mr. Grant said, "We're getting kids and adults who either have been assaulted or witnessed a confrontation that prompted them to get in here to learn how to protect themselves."

Indeed, aggravated assault increased nearly 2% and a quick search of "street fight" on YouTube.com exposes the disturbing trend in living color. Grant says, "You see one of these fights on the Internet and it's disgusting. Parents see that and they want to make sure their kids can take care of themselves and bring them to us."

Classes for beginners start next week at Grant's Martial Arts, which is located at 404 West Main Street in Plymouth and on the web at gmakarate.com.

END

Click here to download and print this press release!