(TheConservativeTimes.org) – A North Dakota jury delivered a stunning $650 million blow to radical environmental group Greenpeace, finding it liable for defaming Texas-based oil company Energy Transfer.
Reached after just two days of deliberation, the verdict could force the 50-year-old activist organization into bankruptcy and finally hold them accountable for actions against American energy independence.
The historic ruling stems from Greenpeace’s involvement in the Dakota Access Pipeline protests that gained international attention during President Donald Trump’s first term.
Energy Transfer accused the environmental group of trespass, nuisance, and civil conspiracy.
The charges were related to the demonstrations that attracted over 10,000 protesters, including Native American tribes, veterans, and left-wing activists.
The awarded damages exceeded Energy Transfer’s initial claim of $300 million, sending a clear message that radical environmental groups cannot escape responsibility for their actions.
Greenpeace USA was found liable for all counts, while Greenpeace International and Greenpeace Fund Inc. were found liable for some charges.
Energy Transfer founder Kelcy Warren explained the company’s decision to pursue legal action against the radical group: “It was time to fight back.”
The verdict represents a landmark victory for American energy companies that have long been targets of extreme environmental activism.
The Dakota Access Pipeline has been operational since 2017, creating American jobs and strengthening national energy security despite relentless opposition from groups like Greenpeace.
The case was heard in a court located just 100 miles from the protest site, ensuring local citizens had a voice in the proceedings.
The trial followed Energy Transfer’s dismissed federal RICO lawsuit, which was refiled in North Dakota state court, where the protests took place.
Greenpeace claimed it merely “supported” the protests rather than leading them but failed to convince the jury.
Their legal team’s argument that the lawsuit threatened free speech fell flat when confronted with evidence of actual damages caused to the American energy company.
Carl Tobias, a law professor commenting on the case, noted that “the verdict’s magnitude will have a chilling effect on environmental and other public interest litigation.”
Greenpeace has vowed to appeal the verdict, claiming potential bankruptcy in the United States would end over 50 years of their activism.
The group also counter-sued Energy Transfer in a Dutch court, trying to change jurisdictions for a friendlier outcome.
Energy Transfer’s victory signals that American companies are finally fighting back against the radical environmental movement that has attempted to block domestic energy production for decades.
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