Fri Jan 17 19:19:14 UTC 2025: **CNN Settles Defamation Lawsuit with Afghanistan Evacuation Veteran for $5 Million**
Panama City, FL – CNN has reached a $5 million settlement with U.S. Navy veteran Zachary Young, ending a defamation lawsuit hours after a jury found the network liable. The jury awarded Young $5 million in compensatory damages following a two-week trial. The settlement avoids a second phase of the trial that would have determined punitive damages.
Young, a security consultant, sued CNN in 2022 over a segment on “The Lead with Jake Tapper” that accused him of profiting from the evacuation of Afghans following the U.S. military withdrawal in 2021. The segment depicted Young as exploiting desperate Afghans with exorbitant fees on a “black market” for evacuations.
Young’s lawyers argued that CNN’s reporting was false and that he only worked with corporations and NGOs, not directly with Afghan citizens. They maintained the high prices reflected the high demand during the chaotic withdrawal. Young claimed the segment severely damaged his reputation and career, leading to significant financial losses and emotional distress.
CNN, while maintaining the accuracy of its reporting, had previously expressed regret for using the term “black market” in its coverage. The network’s defense of the original report was rejected by the court, resulting in the rare defamation finding against a major media organization.
Circuit Judge William Henry announced the settlement in court but did not release details of the agreement. The case highlights the challenges faced by news organizations in covering sensitive events and the high standard required to prove defamation.
First Piper 