CHESAPEAKE, Va. (WAVY) — A local group of seniors in Chesapeake is taking some lessons on how to fight back.

They say they’re afraid they might become the next target as crime continues to be prevalent here in Hampton Roads, so the South Norfolk Niners Club asked the Chesapeake Sheriff’s Office to teach them a few moves if an attacker were ever to come their way.

“It’s important to teach seniors about safety and about how to defend themselves because they’re the most vulnerable targets,” said Undersheriff David Rosado.

Some of the seniors tell us they feel nervous walking around late at night, so that’s why they wanted to learn a few moves.

Sheriff’s deputies said they hope the seniors don’t need to use them, but want them to feel more confident if they ever do.

Niners member Kelly-Ann D’amalio-Dawson said this class was really empowering.

“I feel like I can actually defend myself a lot better now, knowing the better areas to strike at,” D’amalio-Dawson said.

She said she has felt unsafe before, especially at night.

“Being a woman, it’s a little bit harder when you’re out at night to just walk to your car or just go grocery shopping late at night,” D’amalio-Dawson said. “It’s just not really safe anywhere.”

Rosado said they don’t advocate carrying weapons people are not proficient with. He said it’s better to use your two readily available weapons, your hands.

“If you’re not proficient in the weapon that you have,” Rosado said, “it may be taken away from you and used on you.”

Rosado and a few defensive tactics instructors from the sheriff’s office work to arm seniors with these techniques so if they’re ever in a position where they need to defend themselves, they’ll know enough that they can get away and call 911.

Rosado also added that it’s important not to carry a big purse, leave your car running with the keys inside or do anything to make yourself an easy target.

And D’amalio-Dawson said she feels pretty confident in her moves.

“I feel that I’m a stronger person because I know that I can do this now,” D’amalio-Dawson said.

One of the seniors who participated, Elsie, even turned 96 today — so happy birthday to her. The sheriff’s office made her feel very special on her big day.

The Chesapeake Sheriff’s Office regularly puts on these self defense workshops for different groups. If you’re interested in getting more information about booking, one call (757) 382-6159 or visit their website.