In the News

Bikers Fighting Domestic Violence
By Eva Wolchover
Boston Herald
August 02, 2008

Bikers revving up against domestic violence will set off today on the third annual Serenity’s Run, in memory of a Lowell law student allegedly murdered and tossed into a Dumpster by her ex-boyfriend.

The motorcycle rumble is sponsored by Jane Doe Inc. and will honor 24-year-old Shannon Meara of Lowell, who died in January.

“We chose to dedicate to it to someone this year, because Shannon’s mother is involved, and because it puts more of a face to the issue,” said event organizer Kathleen Tolle.

The event, hosted in conjunction with Tolle and the Diamond Girlz motorcycle club, begins at 10 a.m. at the Rossmeyer’s Harley-Davidson dealership in Everett and does not require pre-registration. Riders are asked to donate $20.

“Domestic violence is a senseless, horrific crime that can be prevented,” said Shannon’s mother, Arlene Meara. “Shannon was only 24 years old, a law student with her whole life in front of her. She was always the first to try and help others. We cannot help her now, but we can help prevent the deaths of other potential victims.”

Shannon Meara’s alleged killer, Silinda Sun, 38, of Lowell, was arraigned in Lowell Superior Court in January.

Domestic violence homicides are on the rise in Massachusetts, according to Jane Doe Inc., the Massachusetts Coalition Against Sexual Assault and Domestic