SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico - angry people fight police, try to enter Capitol in protest against budget cuts

AP

1 07 2010, SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico — A protest at Puerto Rico’s Capitol has turned violent with police using pepper spray and wielding their batons in clashes with demonstrators.The violence broke out when protesters including some local university students attempted to enter the legislature Wednesday afternoon. Authorities had closed access to the general public after groups announced plans for a protest against budget cuts and other policies of Gov. Luis Fortuno.Television footage showed protesters throwing eggs and barricades at police who were lined up shoulder-to-shoulder at the top of the Capitol steps. Officers struck some people with batons as they charged the entrance.Police chief Jose Figueroa Sancha said protesters also vandalized several cars outside the legislature.