Actually, it is not about this story http://www.whotv.com/news/who-story-des-moines-attempted-assault-102011,0,4424463.story itself, but the comment underneath it.  On a regular basis, these types of stories are in the local news.  While some involve random individuals, a large number involve school teachers who take advantage of students;  stories where adults are victimized rarely make the news at all, as it is too common a problem.  

Where a person is from, their background, and other factors are likely to influence the reaction to this statement:  people should be legally able to defend themselves.  First, making it a crime to defend oneself places a person in the position of feeling they must tolerate this kind of behavior;  perhaps they can gain some degree of justice through the legal system afterward, but the harm is already done.  Second, when it is a crime to defend oneself, those who are inclined toward improper behavior against others is more likely to feel free to do it--  and to get away with it.  

Any person, regardless of age, gender, or other factors, has the right to personal dignity and personal safety.  When one does not have the legal right to defend oneself, personal dignity and personal safety are taken away.  It is far past time the legal system be urged to take an entirely different stand, and return these rights to those who deserve them.