A Fusion Center in Action

A couple of weeks ago I wrote about the fusion centers established by the Department of Homeland Security.  The centers seem to be a cesspool of waste. In Boston, the center is also a surveillance center, except that it surveys citizens who have activist views, particularly as regards peace and anti-war activities.  Today, the Boston Globe reports on some of this activity by the center, which happens to be known as the Boston Regional Intelligence Center although it is housed in the Boston Police Department.

The police spied on such organizations as the Stop the Wars Coalition, United for Justice with Peace, and Greater Boston Code Pink.  It is unlawful to do so unless criminal activity is suspected.  I find it hard to believe that these anti-war activists would have a smidgen of interest in criminal activities.  But the Police Department has a different view, "The BRIC does not maintain continued surveillance or documentation on peace protest groups. Boston residents should confidently participate in any lawful, peaceful protest or demonstration knowing the Boston Police Department is not monitoring the events without specific information on suspected criminal activity.”