A jury in Florida has found CNN liable for defaming a Navy veteran who played a crucial role in evacuating individuals from Afghanistan following the US military’s withdrawal in 2021. The jury awarded damages of $5 million to the plaintiff, Zachary Young, with a second phase of the trial scheduled to determine any punitive damages. The verdict was delivered by a six-person jury after a two-week trial in Panama City, Florida.
Young filed a lawsuit against CNN in 2022, alleging that the cable news network tarnished his reputation in a segment on “The Lead with Jake Tapper” by portraying him as a profiteer who exploited vulnerable Afghans by charging them excessive fees. CNN maintained its stance and refuted the claims of defamation, although the network did express regret in March 2022 for using the term “black market” to characterize Young’s actions.
The case has garnered significant attention due to the implications for media accountability and the impact of news coverage on individuals’ lives. As the legal proceedings continue, it remains to be seen how the outcome will shape the landscape of journalism ethics and the responsibilities of media outlets in their reporting practices.
This story is still unfolding, and updates will be provided as new information becomes available. Stay tuned for the latest developments in this case.
