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ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. (WFLA) — The Florida woman who fought off a kidnapper last month was given an award on Thursday.
The St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office said it gave the first “FightBack Award” to 18-year-old Emma Marine.
On June 29, deputies said Marine was working at a smoke shop in St. Augustine when a man walked into the store, stole merchandise and attempted to kidnap her.
Surveillance video captured Marine fighting off the attacker and screaming.
“She did everything right, screaming, fighting back, and getting away,” said Brian Anderson-Needham with Weapon Brand Self Defense and More.
“Her strength is a living reminder of what it means to fight back and reclaim power in the face of violence,” the sheriff’s office said.
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Courtesy of St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office -
Courtesy of St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office -
Courtesy of St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office -
Courtesy of St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office -
Courtesy of St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office
The sheriff’s office’s Women Against Violent Encounters instructors offered these tips to stay safe in situations:
- Observe and be aware of your surroundings and people
- Know your “Danger Zone,” the distance between people that can jeopardize personal safety
- Trust your instincts and life experiences. If you think something is wrong, it usually is
- Prepare for worst case scenario-mental rehearsal- learn from example
- Attitude, mental commitment, and preparation are keys to success
