Mahoning County Prosecutor Gina DeGenova announces dates for fall self-defense courses
Mahoning County Prosecutor Gina DeGenova announce the next two S.T.O.P. self-defense classes.
The first is happening at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 10 at the Poland branch of the Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County, located at 311 S. Main St. in Poland.
The second class is at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 16 inside the Lariccia Community Center at 375 Boardman Poland Road in Boardman.
Registration opens online Sept. 20.
You can also call (330) 740-2330 at ext. 7259 or email prosecutor@mahoningcountyoh.gov.
What is S.T.O.P.?
S.T.O.P. is a self-defense trauma informed outreach program designed by the Mahoning County Prosecutor’s Office in 2023.
The goal of this course is to provide information and teach self-defense tactics that will increase the confidence of trainees to avoid and respond to potential conflicts or violent incidents.
The training involves three components:
- Education on local laws and local victim services
- Awareness and confidence building
- Physical training
The trainings are taught by members of the Mahoning County Prosecutor’s Office and Ryan Bonacci, Mercy Health’s Chief of Police.
“Empowering our community is a valuable component towards a creating a safer environment. Our office is proud to continue our S.T.O.P courses as a proactive measure to equip residents with the knowledge and skills to protect themselves. By fostering self-reliance and confidence, we aim to reduce crime and create a stronger, more resilient community together,” said Prosecutor DeGenova.
Since 2023, the course has been offered at Youngstown State University, The Campbell Literacy Workforce and Cultural Center, the Jewish Community Center of Youngstown, Austintown Township Park and South Range Middle School.
The prosecutor’s office plans on continuing the S.T.O.P journey by engaging more locations around Mahoning County.