Greenpeace seeks new trial in $345M Dakota Access Pipeline lawsuit

Greenpeace is challenging a $345 million judgment awarded to Energy Transfer, the developer of the Dakota Access Pipeline, following a lawsuit alleging the environmental group incited illegal acts during 2016-2017 protests. Greenpeace claims errors in jury instructions, irrelevant evidence presented by Energy Transfer, and a biased jury pool warrant a new trial. They argue the initial jury award of $667 million, later reduced by the judge to $345 million, incorrectly assumes full responsibility for damages caused by the protests.

Greenpeace seeks to move the trial to Cass County, believing a more impartial jury pool exists there, away from the direct impact of the pipeline protests and the energy industry's influence. They also filed a separate lawsuit in the Netherlands, alleging Energy Transfer is misusing the U.S. legal system. Energy Transfer defends the verdict and may appeal the reduction in the award.

The judge has ruled Greenpeace won't have to pay the judgment immediately but may require a bond of up to $25 million during the appeals process, a request Greenpeace is challenging. The North Dakota Supreme Court is currently considering related appeals regarding the trial location and the Dutch lawsuit.

(Source：Aberdeen News)