An Old Lycoming Township man recently addressed Williamsport City Council about disruptions caused by those in large pick up trucks revving engines, blowing black diesel smoke, and potentially endangering those who peacefully gather at Market Square in downtown Williamsport.

The man said he has attended every event at Market Square concerning the recent federal issues the nation is encountering. These activities have been protests related to federal action taken by the administration of President Donald J. Trump on a variety of matters, including the economy and immigration.

His question to the Williamsport Bureau of Police is why is there no police presence at these events? He said he witnessed at least three dangerous traffic violations at these events. These include drivers in large pick up trucks, including diesel-run, stopping at Third and Market streets to rev their engines, blow black smoke, spin the tires in front of 200 or 300 people, many of them are within 1 or 2 feet of the end of the road without any police presence.

“If you see a crime being committed, dial 911,” Mayor Derek Slaughter said.

Police Chief Justin Snyder was at the meeting and said he absolutely heard what the man was saying.

“We are kind of damned if we do, damned if we don’t,” Snyder said. “If we show up, we get chastised for being there. We are trying to give you the ability to express yourselves.”

“It is just a phone call away,” Snyder said, adding the city does not have the luxury of having as many officers that the administration wished it was able to have out there.

“To sit an officer down there just for you guys, it sometimes is difficult,” he said. “But if we do have an extra officer, we do try to throw him down there.”

Snyder noted the police are aware of what is going on and are trying to watch it, “so that nobody comes down and disrupts what you are trying to do and it is what is within your constitutional rights to do.”

Council President Adam Yoder said he appreciated the township resident bringing forward the issue and articulating it to the council and the chief for his dialogue.

“Even if they are gone, you have got to at least report it,” Yoder said, with Snyder nodding affirmatively. Even if it is not the 911 number, the general number for the police department — call it in and they at least will know this happened when, where it is at . . . . I think it might aid in their future efforts in terms of whether it is patrols.”

Snyder agreed. If it is reported the department has a reason to go there and send someone there.

The city also has video surveillance at Market Square, Snyder said.

“We can go back and review,” he said.