>> Update: Police Defend Use Of Force

DAVIS (CBS13) – Protesters said they plan to reestablish camp in the middle of the UC Davis quad after officers in riot gear took down their tents and arrested a number of students who refused to leave.

Authorities warned demonstrators to take down their camp between the Memorial Union and Shields Library and disperse at about 3:00 p.m. Friday, and when the “Occupy UC Davis” protesters refused, police officers moved in a half hour later.

Authorities began using pepper spray on parts of the crowd shortly after 4:00 p.m. and began arresting students, but retreated after the crowd swelled in size at about 4:10 p.m.

CBS13 reporter Checkey Beckford and videojournalist Dennis Marin were hit with pepper spray during the incident.

At least 10 students were arrested.

Students had set up an encampment on the field Thursday in solidarity with “Occupy Wall Street” and to protest higher tuition costs. Many of the protesters told CBS13 they planned to set up camp again and remain on the quad throughout the night.

UC Davis officials were not available to comment on what they plan to do if protesters refuse to leave.

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