Authorities Lift Blockade On Bridge Involved In Protest

The Morton County Sheriff’s Office says that it has lifted the blockade on a bridge north of the large Dakota Access oil pipeline protest encampment.

That bridge was the site of a skirmish between protesters and law enforcement in late November.

In a statement, officers said they won’t be near the bridge as long as protesters stick to the conditions outlined on Saturday, including only coming to the bridge for predetermined meetings with law enforcement.

Cass County Sheriff Paul Laney met briefly with one of the protestors and exchanged what was described as very encouraging dialogue.

Authorities say the conversation showed law enforcement that the respected elders are exerting their influence in a positive way.

Sheriff Laney has been at the protest sight for months as part of Morton County Operations.