CNN Loses $5 Million Defamation Suit Over Jake Tapper Segment

CNN has been found liable for defamation in a lawsuit brought by Navy veteran Zachary Young, who used his private business to evacuate people from Afghanistan after the Taliban seized control of the country.

A jury in Bay County, Florida, determined that CNN defamed Young in a segment aired on The Lead with Jake Tapper. In the report, correspondent Alex Marquardt portrayed Young as an “illegal profiteer” exploiting “desperate Afghans” with “exorbitant” fees. According to Law & Crime, the jury found the segment defamatory and awarded Young $5 million—$4 million for lost employment and $1 million in punitive damages for pain and suffering.

Young’s attorney, Devin “Vel” Freedman, argued that CNN’s broadcast severely damaged his client’s reputation, making it nearly impossible for him to work. “The correction didn’t do anything,” Freedman told the jury. “They issued a correction because they were trying to get out of a lawsuit.” He described CNN’s actions as malicious, accusing the network of knowingly airing a false narrative.

The jury’s decision came after eight and a half hours of deliberation, with jurors concluding that CNN acted with malice. Although they initially planned to set punitive damages, Circuit Court Judge William Henry announced that the parties had reached an agreement on the amount.

CNN’s attorney, David Axelrod, defended the segment, claiming the reporting was “tough but fair” and asserting it was accurate. However, Freedman dismissed this argument, emphasizing that CNN’s actions were deliberate. “This was no accident,” he said. “Your verdict will stand in history as everyday Americans stood up to fake news, lies, and corporate greed.”

The case underscores the growing scrutiny on media accountability, particularly regarding allegations of defamation.