More People Taking Self-Defense Classes

Raleigh police say the number of rapes in the first part of this year is up 26 percent. from last year. Burglaries are also up by 14 percent. The rise in crime is forcing some residents to take matters into their own hands.

More women have been coming out in large numbers to learn how to defend themselves. Brad Huffman, a self-defense instructor in north Raleigh, claims his principles could save your life.

"We teach unarmed defense against weapons," Huffman said.

Huffman said more women have come in since the death of Stephanie Bennett, a Raleigh native who was murdered in her apartment in May. He said one life is one too many to lose at the hands of an attacker.

"You pay all this money for fire protection. You lock your door. Why would you not put money down to protect yourself on a program that would save your life?" he said.

An average self-defense class costs $50 a month.