Jury Begins Civil Trial Over DAPL Protests In North Dakota

The trial between Energy Transfer Partners, the owner of the Dakota Access Pipeline, and Greenpeace over alleged damages during pipeline protests has begun in Mandan, North Dakota. Energy Transfer is seeking $300 million, claiming Greenpeace orchestrated unlawful protests against the pipeline, which they allege resulted in significant financial harm. Greenpeace counters that the lawsuit is an attempt to suppress free speech and intimidate activists, asserting they played a minimal role in the protests. The trial is expected to last approximately five weeks and could set important precedents regarding protest rights and free speech. Legal experts are closely observing the case, which is considered one of the largest civil trials in North Dakota history. Both sides have emphasized the potential implications of the trial for future environmental protests and activism.