Pipeline Company Lawyers: Greenpeace Helped Fund and Coordinate DAPL Protests That Turned Violent

Attorneys for Energy Transfer, the company behind the Dakota Access Pipeline (DAPL), said Greenpeace helped fund and coordinate protests that ultimately turned violent, according to recent court arguments, reported Legal Newsline.

The claims came as Energy Transfer wrapped its case in a lengthy legal battle stemming from the protests that erupted during the pipeline’s construction.

The Dakota Access Pipeline, which transports oil from North Dakota to Illinois, faced significant opposition during its development in 2016 and 2017. The protests attracted national attention, with environmental groups and activists gathering near the Standing Rock Sioux Reservation to voice concerns about environmental risks and the impact on tribal lands. While many protests remained peaceful, several incidents escalated into violence and vandalism.

Energy Transfer’s legal team has argued that Greenpeace played a significant role in coordinating these demonstrations. According to the company’s claims, Greenpeace not only encouraged activists to participate in the protests but also provided financial support to groups involved in direct action campaigns. Energy Transfer maintains that these actions led to property destruction, arson, and confrontations with law enforcement.

In court, Energy Transfer’s attorneys presented evidence they claim ties Greenpeace to the protests’ escalation. The company has framed Greenpeace’s involvement as part of a broader strategy to undermine energy projects through what it describes as “eco-terrorism.” Greenpeace has denied these accusations, calling them baseless and an attempt to intimidate activists and suppress free speech.

The Dakota Access Pipeline protests gained global attention, with thousands of demonstrators gathering at camps near the Standing Rock Sioux Reservation. Protesters voiced concerns that the pipeline could contaminate local water supplies and violate Native American treaty rights. While some protests were peaceful, others resulted in clashes with law enforcement, leading to numerous arrests and allegations of excessive force.

Energy Transfer has sought to recover damages from Greenpeace, alleging that the organization’s involvement contributed to millions of dollars in financial losses. The lawsuit is part of a broader legal strategy the company has employed against environmental groups that have opposed its projects.