Regarding the contempt proceedings in the case of the Institute of Cetacean Research (ICR) vs. Sea Shepherd Conservation Society USA (SSCS USA) in the U.S. Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, which began on October 28 in Seattle, Wash. and concluded yesterday:

Sea Shepherd Conservation Society USA was pleased to have had the opportunity to present its case against the allegations of contempt brought before the U.S. Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals by Japan’s Institute of Cetacean Research. Sea Shepherd USA’s directors, its founder, and staff believe that the organization has done its utmost to comply with the injunction. We are grateful to have had the opportunity to present evidence and we look forward to a decision in this case.

Next steps: Briefings will be filed by attorneys for both sides. The Commissioner will review the briefings and issue his recommendations to the three-­‐member panel of the Ninth Circuit Court. A decision from the panel might be expected in the next several weeks.