Morton County Commission chairman Cody Schultz says he’s saddened, frustrated and confused by the statements made by Standing Rock Chairman Dave Archambault after weekend incidents involving Dakota Access Pipeline protestors.
One hundred twenty seven protestors were arrested in several incidents Saturday and Sunday.
Archambault sent a statement – saying the incidents escalated because of what he called “strong arm tactics and abuses by law enforcement.”
Schultz takes issue with that.
"The law enforcement personnel from across the state, and now across the country, have shown incredible professionalism and unbelievable restraint, in the face of more and more aggressive tactics and illegal activity from protestors," Schultz told reporters at a Mandan news conference.
Schultz said he’s tried to talk with Archambault about the situation – and has met with him a few times.
"To date, the Chairman has made no attempt to contact me," Schultz said. "And as I understand it, he is now not willing to communicate with state leaders either."
Schultz said Archambault must condemn the illegal actions that are not being carried out by Standing Rock Tribal members. And he said the chairman must respect the right of not only the protestors, but the citizens of Morton County.
(A video of Schultz' remarks will be available on the Prairie Public News Facebook Page.)