Climate change activists were hoping to a statement this week at a trial in Fall River, but instead, they got an unexpected show of support from the Bristol County District Attorney. Two environmental activists were facing criminal prosecution for using a lobster boat to block a coal shipment headed for Brayton Point Power Station in May 2013. The stunt landed them in jail for conspiracy, negligent operation of a motor vessel, and other charges. The activists were hoping the trial would publicize a novel defense – that the threat of climate change is so dire, that they were compelled to break the law. But then an odd twist. Bristol DA Sam Sutter agreed with them on this issue. Heather Goldstone shares the details of this case, and the possible implications for climate change policy.
