CNN is entangled in a $1 billion defamation lawsuit filed by Navy veteran Zachary Young, who is pushing Florida’s courts to force the network to release its internal journalistic conduct and social media guidelines. These documents are critical to demonstrating whether CNN was negligent in vetting stories.
Young’s motion to compel responses, filed on Wednesday, highlights CNN’s refusal to provide the requested documents. 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 actions have drawn comparisons to delay tactics they once criticized former President Trump for employing.
In September 2023, Young’s lawyers attempted to depose CNN’s corporate representative. However, CNN issued objections and refused to schedule a deposition for three months, prompting Young’s team to unilaterally issue a deposition notice. A court mediation in December 2023 led to a delayed deposition scheduled for June 2024.
During the deposition, CNN’s internal guidelines were mentioned, but CNN refused to provide these documents, arguing they were outside the discovery period. Young’s legal team argues that CNN’s delays should not prevent the disclosure of relevant documents and has asked the court to ensure these documents are produced.
Young’s team also filed a separate motion on Wednesday seeking court intervention for financial discovery related to potential punitive damages. Despite a court ruling affirming Young’s right to seek punitive damages, CNN has resisted providing financial information.
Access to CNN’s journalistic conduct guidelines is vital for Young’s case to determine whether CNN’s alleged defamation resulted from deviations from their procedures. CNN has claimed that its Triad team, consisting of editorial, legal, and standards professionals, reviews all significant stories before they air.
A now-deleted YouTube video shows Triad member Drew Shenkman explaining how legal reviews help ensure the accuracy and integrity of CNN’s journalism. This review process is designed to catch any significant allegations of wrongdoing before they are broadcast.
The ongoing legal battle questions CNN’s transparency and adherence to its journalistic standards. With the trial set to begin in January 2025, the outcome could significantly impact media accountability and practices.
