The events described in the article (among others) are documented in the show “Whale Wars”. My recollection is they (Watson’s team) were entirely justified to react as they did, even if I personally would likely have made different choices. This does not mean it was legal, and I have no opinion on that.

I need to find a donation link for Watson…

Edit: Bottom right of this page, under the petition. https://www.paulwatsonfoundation.org/freepaulwatson/