Their names were to be taken down prior to their release, so that they would be subject to arrest on trespassing charges if they returned to the base. President Clinton was advised during the night by his chief of staff, John Podesta, that the operation had begun and was briefed on its progress this morning, White House spokesman Joe Lockhart said. He added that Clinton believes all parties now should move forward on their agreement to hold a referendum as early as next year on the range's future while letting the Navy use the base in the meantime. Reno said that as long as protesters don't commit violence against federal officers or try to re-enter the base, they won't be charged. More than 200 FBI agents and 100 deputy marshals participated in the operation, said federal law enforcement officials.
All indications are that the protesters have handled themselves in a peaceful and dignified manner.
Although the protesters were moving without a fight, Reno said they wanted to be taken into custody to underscore their opposition to the bombing range. She said no special court order was needed to evict the protesters because they were in violation of federal laws against trespassing on U.S. military property. A raid to clear the base had been expected since three U.S. warships carrying Marines arrived in the Vieques area Monday. Reno said the Navy and Marines had ultimate responsibility for securing the range. Earlier today, the U.S. Coast Guard said it was blockading waters and land adjacent to the bombing range and warned people to stay away.