A Federal Judge Released BP from Probation

U.S. District Judge Ralph Beistline says BP followed normal industry practices maintaining and operating the transport pipelines that burst, spilling more than 15 thousand gallons of crude oil into wetlands.

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by News Staff

Story Created: Dec 28, 2011 at 8:35 PM AKDT

Story Updated: Dec 28, 2011 at 8:35 PM AKDT

A federal judge rules BP not negligent during it's 2009 oil spill on the North Slope.
U.S. District Judge Ralph Beistline says BP followed normal industry practices maintaining and operating the transport pipelines that burst, spilling more than 15 thousand gallons of crude oil into wetlands.
Beistline described the spill as an unforeseeable accident and released BP from probation.
The ruling stems from prosecutors accusing BP of violating state and federal law by being negligent during the 2009 spill.
At the time documents say BP was on probation as a result of a misdemeanor conviction in the U.S. District Court for a violation of the Clean Water Act back in 2007.
The government alleged BP violated the probation during the 2009 spill.
In a statement sent by Alaska's spokesperson, Steve Rinehart, he says, "We are pleased with the decision and appreciate the court's attention. We know that the privilege of working in alaska comes with a responsibility to maintain high standards. We will continue our commitment to running safe and compliant operations."
Although Beistline dismissed BP's probation, ruling documents say, "The court certainly cannot fault the government for the position it has taken in this matter for there clearly were reasons for concern."

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