Troopers photograph bikes and plates at weekly event

August 12, 7:40 AMManchester Motorcycle ExaminerChris Greenleaf

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Source:  Lldar Sagdejev/Wikipedia

For the better of fifteen years, Tuesday night bike night has been a rite of passage in Lowell, MA.  Motorcycles from all around New England flock to the public common on the waterfront in Lowell to socialize, meet with, mingle and enjoy the company of other motorcycle enthusiasts from the area.

Last night's event had an element of surprise. Through the event, Massachusetts State Police Troopers began videotaping/photographing motorcyles and their license plates as they were parked on the common. Reportedly the bikes and riders were not involved in any illegal activity.  The organizers of the event do secure a permit from the state to orchestrate the event each and every week, and keep a local city officer on patrol at the event for security purposes.  The event costs $3 per bike, and is free to the general public should they decide to walk to the event.

Organizers are working responsibly with the state police to get to the bottom the matter.  I'd like to know your opinion and feedback on the issue. To me, this appears to be a legitimate (although unwelcome) practice, until such a time an officer touches your (our) property without some type of probable cause or warrant.  Bearing in mind, this is state property, what do you think are our rights and/or responsibilities are?

Please participate in the poll below to share your thoughts.