Calling the invasion of the wildlife refuge building a "peaceful" protest is somewhat disingenuous, in that that the participants are quoted as saying they will use their weapons "if needs be". The only reason it is currently "peaceful" is that no one has yet challenged them.

I have been at the Refuge several times and the question I have is as to how the 'militia' got in. If no workers were there when they arrived, it appears they are guilty of breaking and entering.

My suggestion: Have a couple of uniformed and badged - but UNARMED - law officers enter the premises and order the 'patriots' to disperse or face arrest. If they are disregarded or held hostage, the perpetrators can then be charged with interfering with the law.