A U.S. jury has determined CNN responsible for defamation against Navy veteran Zachary Young, resulting in substantial compensatory damages.
After extensive deliberation, the jury collectively awarded Zachary Young $5 million for economic and personal distress, leading to a settled punitive damages figure, undisclosed to the public, Fox News reported.
The case accused CNN of making defamatory statements against Young, alleging illicit profit from aiding Afghanistan's withdrawal. The veteran’s legal victory follows an arduous path of over three years in court and an eight-day trial. The report in question, aired on November 11, 2021, claimed that Young improperly profited from the evacuation efforts, a claim he vehemently denied and judged unfounded by Judge William S. Henry.
During the trial, expert testimony suggested a punitive damages award of up to $150 million might be warranted to ensure CNN faced apt punishment. Although the formal settlement figure remains private, this estimation shaped much of the court's discourse. Young's attorney, Vel Freedman, described the report as a damaging personal attack, affecting his reputation and family relationships.
Alex Marquardt's report aired on the program "The Lead with Jake Tapper" implied Young's misconduct, further exacerbated by promotional teasers from Jake Tapper himself. These led to an extensive examination of their potential influence on public perception, a matter that weighed heavily during jury deliberations. Internal messages from CNN revealed negative attitudes towards Young, suggesting bias against him.
Young testified to the emotional strain the ordeal placed on him, particularly in his marriage, while highlighting unacknowledged efforts in rescuing vulnerable Afghans. The report’s use of the term "black market" was contested, with some CNN staff indicated disbelief in the validity of the story.
CNN aired an apology on March 25, 2022, addressing the inaccuracies of Marquardt’s reporting, though internally, some staff contested its necessity. Pamela Brown issued the statement during Jake Tapper's absence, acknowledging mistakes but asserting ongoing support for their journalistic endeavors. A CNN spokesperson reiterated their commitment to strong reporting, despite the lawsuit's outcome.
Internal communications painted a vivid picture of dissonance, revealing derogatory remarks about Young and skepticism about the report's foundation. This rift within CNN's ranks became a focal point during the trial, showcasing potential internal biases that may have influenced the narrative. Young’s legal team argued these internal dynamics underscored the defamation and its subsequent impact on his life.
Judge Henry's directions to the jury emphasized the importance of considering all evidence, a pivotal aspect of their verdict and the subsequent settlement discussions. The case spotlighted journalistic integrity and the responsibility media organizations bear in their reporting practices. Yet, CNN maintained its stance on journalistic independence while acknowledging areas for potential improvement.
Freedman noted, "None of them are sorry. All of them said they would do it again," reflecting on the actions of CNN staff and indicating a belief in the correctness of their original report. Highlights from the trial included heated discussions on staging accusations related to Young’s recorded conversations, which were presented as poorly managed theatrical events rather than authentic exchanges.
Zachary Young’s attorney, Vel Freedman, emphasized, "It was a calculated attack by CNN on his character that has inflicted deep and lasting wounds." His narrative underscored both the personal distress and broader reputational challenges faced by Young following the report.
The jury's verdict underscores critical lessons media entities must heed to uphold credibility and trustworthiness. Young's emotional testimony and the evidential presentation shifted the focus toward individual accountability within journalistic practices. Despite the contentious nature of the trial, CNN voices a clear intent to learn and evolve from the ordeal.
In summary, a jury found CNN liable for defamation against Zachary Young, awarding him compensation for both lost income and personal damages. The case centered on CNN's reporting during the Afghanistan withdrawal, with subsequent internal discord and settlement negotiations highlighting underlying issues. As CNN reflects on this outcome, they assert continued dedication to journalistic standards and integrity.
