Greenpeace Liable for $667M in Dakota Pipeline Case

A North Dakota jury has ordered Greenpeace to pay approximately $667 million to Energy Transfer, the company behind the Dakota Access Pipeline, due to the group's involvement in protests characterized by violence and defamation. The jury found Greenpeace liable for multiple charges, including defamation and conspiracy, following evidence that the group funded and organized the protests, which led to significant disruptions and legal issues. Energy Transfer celebrated the verdict as a win for law-abiding citizens, while Greenpeace intends to appeal, arguing that the decision poses a threat to free speech rights. Legal experts have raised concerns that this ruling could deter environmental activism and inspire more lawsuits against protest groups. The case marks a significant precedent regarding the limits of protest actions and the legal repercussions of organizing dissent against corporate entities. Greenpeace also faces ongoing legal challenges, including a countersuit filed in the Netherlands.