Navy veteran Zachary Young has intensified his legal battle against CNN by asking Florida’s courts to compel the network to release its internal journalistic conduct and social media guidelines. Young is pursuing a $1 billion defamation lawsuit and argues that these documents are essential to proving CNN’s negligence in story vetting.
Filed on Wednesday, Young’s motion reveals CNN’s refusal to provide the requested documents. The network has also been accused of hindering the deposition of host Jake Tapper and allegedly destroying evidence by deleting social media posts. CNN’s actions have been likened to the delay tactics they previously criticized former President Trump for using.
In September 2023, Young’s lawyers sought to depose CNN’s corporate representative, but CNN delayed and objected for months, forcing Young’s team to issue a unilateral notice of deposition. A court mediation in December 2023 delayed the deposition to June 2024.
During this deposition, CNN’s internal guidelines were revealed, but CNN has refused to produce these documents, citing the discovery period’s end. Young’s legal team contends that CNN’s delays should not hinder the release of relevant documents and has requested the court to ensure their production.
In a separate motion on Wednesday, Young’s team asked the court to intervene in obtaining 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.
Young’s team needs access to CNN’s journalistic conduct guidelines to determine if CNN deviated from their procedures in the alleged defamation case. CNN maintains that their Triad team, consisting of 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 significant allegations are thoroughly vetted. This process aims to catch any serious allegations before they are broadcast.
The case raises concerns about CNN’s transparency and adherence to journalistic standards. With the trial approaching in January 2025, the outcome could have far-reaching implications for media practices and accountability.
