CNN is facing a $1 billion defamation lawsuit from Navy veteran Zachary Young, who is urging Florida’s courts to compel the network to disclose its internal journalistic conduct and social media guidelines. These documents could be crucial in determining whether CNN was negligent in its vetting process.
According to a motion filed on Wednesday, CNN has been resisting the request to turn over these documents, which may reveal their procedures for story verification. The network has also been accused of obstructing the deposition of host Jake Tapper and allegedly destroying evidence by deleting social media posts.
CNN’s tactics have been described as deliberate delays. Despite a court order for a deposition of their corporate representative, CNN stalled the process, pushing it beyond the fact-discovery period. In September 2023, Young’s lawyers sought to depose CNN’s corporate representative, but CNN delayed and objected, forcing a unilateral notice of deposition by Young’s team. A court mediation in December 2023 resulted in a deposition scheduled for June 2024.
During this deposition, CNN’s internal guidelines were mentioned. However, CNN has refused to provide these documents, claiming they fall outside the discovery period.
Young’s legal team argues that CNN is using self-imposed delays to avoid compliance, requesting the court ensure these documents are produced.
A separate filing on Wednesday also seeks court intervention for CNN to comply with financial discovery related to potential punitive damages. Despite a court ruling affirming Young’s right to seek punitive damages, CNN has been reluctant to disclose financial information.
Access to CNN’s journalistic conduct guidelines is vital for Young’s team to assess whether CNN’s alleged defamation stemmed from a deviation from their procedures. CNN has claimed that its Triad team, consisting of editorial, legal, and standards professionals, reviews all significant stories before airing.
In a now-deleted YouTube video, Triad member Drew Shenkman explained how legal reviews help ensure the accuracy and integrity of CNN’s journalism. This review process is supposed to catch any significant allegations of wrongdoing before they are broadcast.
The ongoing legal battle raises questions about CNN’s transparency and adherence to its own journalistic standards. As the trial approaches, set to begin in January 2025, the outcome could have significant implications for media accountability and journalistic practices.
