LOS ANGELES (AP) - More than 50 bicyclists arrested during the Democratic National Convention last year are suing the city, county and local law enforcement officials, alleging civil rights violations.

The lawsuit filed Friday claimed 57 bicyclists were unlawfully arrested and searched after they were halted by police on Aug. 15, 2000. It seeks unspecified damages and a penalty of $25,000 per plaintiff.

``They were a group of people bicycling around downtown,'' said Timothy Midgley, attorney for the plaintiffs. ``Some people were there demonstrating in favor of pedal power, but other people were just tourists and bicycle messengers.''

County spokeswoman Judy Hammond declined to comment, saying she had not seen the lawsuit.

The protest was aimed at creating a more bike-friendly environment. Police said the cyclists were arrested after they ignored traffic laws and showed a disregard for safety.

The lawsuit claims women in the group were subjected to strip searches and body cavity searches in a county jail corridor. It also alleges they bicyclists were denied telephone calls and medication and were imprisoned for 12 hours after charges were dismissed.