The Verdict: A North Dakota jury found Greenpeace liable for defamation and protest activities against the Dakota Access Pipeline, ordering the organization to pay $660 million to Energy Transfer. The verdict followed a three-week trial that included testimony from activists, company officials, and law enforcement.
What it means: This ruling could jeopardize Greenpeace's future operations, as the $660 million in damages exceeds their annual budget of $40 million by more than 16 times. The case also raises significant concerns about free speech and environmental activism, prompting Greenpeace to announce plans to appeal the decision.