A Florida jury has decided that CNN defamed U.S. Navy veteran Zachary Young, leading to a substantial financial settlement.
According to Fox News, in a legal battle that captured significant public attention, a jury found CNN liable for defamation, awarding compensatory damages and paving the way for punitive damages before a settlement concluded the case.
The defamation case centered on a report by CNN that aired on November 11, 2021, suggesting that Zachary Young profitably exploited the chaotic U.S. military withdrawal from Afghanistan.
Young, a former U.S. Navy veteran, faced allegations in the CNN report of charging exorbitant fees for evacuations during the crisis. He subsequently filed a lawsuit accusing CNN of smearing his reputation.
Jury Deliberation And Verdict Outcomes Embroil Major Network
The dramatic trial, held in Panama City, Florida, lasted for eight days and was described as sporadically chaotic. Under the oversight of Judge William S. Henry of the 14th Judicial Circuit Court, the jury deliberated for over eight hours before reaching a verdict on a Friday. They awarded Young $4 million for lost earnings and an additional $1 million for personal damages, including the emotional toll on his life and relationships.
Judge Henry’s guidance during the trial focused on the jurors' assessment of both compensatory and potentially punitive damages. He emphasized the need for careful consideration of the evidence presented, instructing the jury on the scope of damages to address CNN's conduct specifically linked to Young's injuries.
Final Settlement Reached Before Punitive Ruling
While the expert witness during the trial suggested that a reasonable punitive amount could ascend to as high as $150 million, the proceedings never reached that phase. Before the punitive damages could be determined, CNN and Young reached a settlement, the terms of which were not disclosed to the public. This concluded more than three years of legal confrontations between the parties.
CNN responded to the initial verdict by reiterating their dedication to responsible journalism. A spokesperson stated to Fox News Digital their commitment to "strong, fearless, and fair-minded reporting," though conceded that lessons would be taken from the proceedings.
During the trial, key moments highlighted potential editorial missteps and dubious journalistic practices by CNN. These included allegations of manipulated footage and inconsistencies in the reporting methods used by CNN’s journalists, particularly correspondent Marquardt, who was featured prominently in the criticized broadcast.
Public Reaction And CNN's Attempted Rectification
Following the controversial report, CNN issued an on-air apology on March 25, 2022, amidst internal testimonies suggesting some staff believed the apology was unnecessary and not driven by genuine regret.
This point was underscored by Young's emotional testimony during the trial, wherein he tearfully discussed the devastating impact the CNN segment had on his personal life and marriage.
Attorney Vel Freedman's closing remarks accused CNN of performing a "calculated attack" on Young's character, which inflicted "deep and lasting wounds" on the veteran. Freedman also pointed out that CNN staff exhibited no remorse, with evidence showing a willingness to repeat their contentious actions.
As the dust settles on this high-profile defamation trial, the journalism community and the public alike are left to ponder the ramifications of the case for media responsibility and the ethical lines of reporting in crises.
The agreement between Young and CNN closes this chapter, albeit with lasting implications for how news organizations handle sensitive subjects and the reputational risks involved.
