10:31 AM CST on Wednesday, November 23, 2005

Associated Press

CRAWFORD, Texas -- A dozen war protesters were arrested today after setting up camp near President Bush's ranch -- in defiance of new local bans.

The arrests near Crawford are the first under new McLennan County bans on roadside camping and parking.

The antiwar demonstrators were arrested about four hours after they pitched six tents on public right-of-way and huddled in sleeping bags and blankets. Sheriff's deputies had warned them earlier that they were subject to arrest.

The arrests went peacefully -- although two protesters chose to be carried by deputies.

Antiwar activist Cindy Sheehan has a family emergency but expects to join the group later this week. In August, Sheehan led a 26-day protest near the ranch.