DOWNTOWN SPOKANE | Riverfront Park Attempted Abduction

Yesterday morning a 14 year-old girl jogging through Riverfront Park was attacked by a stranger as she paused to tie her shoe. Her would be attacker was described as a white male, about 5'08" and 170 lbs, with blonde hair and a goatee. If it hadn't been for her refusal to become a victim and the actions of a good Samaritan the story may have possibly ended badly.

Nationally 1.9 million women per year are physically attacked. There are some steps you (regardless of your gender) can take to prevent becoming an attack victim.

Pepper Spray: Pepper Spray is an effective deterrent and its legal to carry in this state. Make sure its readily accessible, there is no way you will be able to fend off and attacker as you dig through your purse for a spritz during the heat of the attack — so stay prepared. Sometimes the mere visibility of can of pepper spray can make an attacker think twice.

I heard a news reporter last night suggest wasp spray because the canister sprays up to 20 feet, much farther than a can of pepper spray.  In my opinion, if you are that far (20 feet) from your attacker, you are better off to try and increase your distance from your attacker than you are taking the moment to douse him with wasp killer.

Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Like any predator, they look for the 'weakest' and most 'vulnerable' person as their victim. Project a confident mental attitude that you're not there to have your day ruined by some lowlife scum bag.

Strength in Numbers: One factor that played a role in yesterday's attempted abduction was the fact this female was jogging alone. Yea, I know, this kind of stuff doesn't happen in Riverfront Park. Truth is, this kind of thing can happen anywhere. Jogging with a friend or in a group significantly reduces the chances of being attacked.

Carry a Big Stick: If you are a walker, carry a hiking stick. A hiking stick or hiking pole makes a great gift and is a very effective defensive tactic tool.

Buy a Consumer Grade Taser: Taser requires you attend a course before you are allowed to carry one of their products. Consumer Tasers allow the user to defend themselves by immobilizing the attacker and allowing you to create distance and flee the scene.

There is no guaranteed way you will be able to prevent being attacked but some of these simple tips can go a long away and decrease your chances of being a target.