District of Columbia police have arrested 11 protesters after entering and clearing a city-owned building in downtown Washington that had been occupied by a group inspired by Occupy DC.

Supporters of the protesters cheered Saturday evening as officers led demonstrators outside in handcuffs and into two police vans.

The group Free Franklin began occupying the four-story Franklin School on Saturday, protesting the lack of housing for homeless people. The abandoned historic building served as a homeless shelter until 2008.

DC Protective Services Police Chief Louis Cannon told The Associated Press that 11 protesters were arrested inside, including eight men and three women.

Each will be charged with unlawful entry and could face up to a year in jail for the misdemeanor charge, as well as a fine, if convicted. [AP]