Navy veteran Zachary Young has taken legal action against CNN, seeking $1 billion in a defamation lawsuit. Young has asked Florida’s courts to compel CNN to provide documents detailing their journalistic conduct and social media guidelines, which are essential to his case.
A motion filed on Wednesday reveals that CNN has resisted providing these documents, which are critical to understanding their story vetting process. CNN has also been accused of hindering the deposition of host Jake Tapper and deleting social media posts to destroy evidence.
Young’s legal team has faced repeated delays from CNN. Despite seeking to depose CNN’s corporate representative in September 2023, CNN delayed and objected for months, forcing Young’s lawyers to issue a unilateral notice of deposition. A court mediation in December 2023 pushed the deposition to June 2024.
During the deposition, CNN’s internal guidelines were revealed, but CNN refused to provide these documents, arguing they were outside the discovery period. Young’s team argues that CNN’s delay tactics should not prevent the disclosure of relevant documents.
They have requested the court to ensure these documents are produced.
In addition to journalistic guidelines, Young’s legal team filed a separate motion on Wednesday requesting court intervention for financial discovery related to punitive damages. Despite a court ruling affirming Young’s right to seek punitive damages, CNN has resisted providing financial information.
The guidelines are essential for Young’s team to determine if CNN deviated from their procedures in the alleged defamation case. CNN has stated that their Triad team, which includes editorial, legal, and standards professionals, reviews all major stories before airing.
A deleted YouTube video shows Triad member Drew Shenkman explaining how legal reviews enhance CNN’s journalism by ensuring all significant allegations are thoroughly vetted. This process is designed to catch any serious allegations before they are broadcast.
The case highlights issues of transparency and adherence to journalistic standards within CNN. As the trial approaches in January 2025, the outcome could have far-reaching effects on media practices and accountability.
