Central ND News

James B. Meigs, a senior fellow at the Manhattan Institute, has commented on Energy Transfer's legal victory against Greenpeace concerning the Dakota Access Pipeline protests from 2016-2017. Meigs claims that the lawsuit revealed "shady linkages" between non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and "violent anarchists."

In his article for Commentary, Meigs said, "Energy Transfer no doubt faces years of appeals before it can collect any of the staggering $667 million judgment. But the company’s lawsuit has already exposed some of the shady linkages between liberal NGOs and violent anarchists." He detailed how Greenpeace allegedly raised funds to support protest training and provided equipment to protesters.

Meigs also described a pattern in recent protests where small movements attract experienced activists who may incite unlawful actions. The Dakota Access Pipeline protests aimed to stop a $3.8 billion project and resulted in numerous arrests, with many participants coming from outside North Dakota.

High-profile individuals like actress Shailene Woodley were arrested during these events, while others such as Mark Ruffalo and Leonardo DiCaprio participated without arrest. On February 1, 2017, 76 people were detained after reportedly trespassing on private property.

Meigs told the Influence Watch podcast that Greenpeace played a behind-the-scenes role in funding these protests. He suggested that this case might signify a shift in how large NGOs and activists influence peaceful demonstrations toward chaos.

Greenpeace is currently appealing the $667 million judgment.