[Hal Netkin] was released after police watched a videotape that showed protesters surrounding the vehicle, banging on it and refusing to move, said Garden Grove Police Lt. Mike Handfield. About 300 protesters at the scene were "trying to intimidate him and refused to let him pass," Handfield said. By night's end, five demonstrators had been arrested.

[James Gilchrist], an Aliso Viejo resident, and his opponents agreed the melee could portend more confrontations between activists as the issue heats up, with the number of citizen groups and radio talk- show hosts opposing illegal immigration growing nationwide. Gilchrist, a hero among like-minded activists, plans several speaking engagements in the coming months, including an appearance at a Las Vegas conference this weekend.

ON WATCH: Minuteman organizer James Gilchrist, a Vietnam veteran shown with war memorabilia, was the target of the protest. A supporter drove into the crowd surrounding his van.; PHOTOGRAPHER: Robert Lachman Los Angeles Times; VIOLENCE: Police and protesters clash Wednesday outside the Minuteman event. The five people arrested face charges including assault with a deadly weapon and misdemeanor disorderly conduct.; PHOTOGRAPHER: Joshua Vazquez Bernal