Following a two-week trial, Navy veteran Zachary Young expressed relief and satisfaction after a jury found CNN guilty of defamation. In an interview with Fox News Digital, Young shared his feelings about the conclusion of the intense legal battle, stating, "I'm glad it's over. Feeling very, very, very good." The jury awarded Young $4 million for lost earnings and $1 million for personal damages, including pain and suffering, and determined that punitive damages against CNN were warranted. However, as the second phase of the trial commenced, both parties informed Judge William S. Henry that they had reached a settlement.
Young reflected on the three-year legal ordeal, expressing gratitude for the public vindication. He emphasized his relief that the matter was resolved, avoiding further prolonged arguments. While the settlement amount remains undisclosed, it followed an expert witness's suggestion of $150 million as appropriate punitive damages against CNN. Despite the protracted legal battle, Young conveyed a lack of animosity towards the network, viewing the outcome as beneficial for both parties. He hopes CNN will use this experience as an opportunity for self-reflection and improvement. Young's lead counsel, Vel Freedman, also praised the legal victory, emphasizing the achievement of clearing Young's name and securing a settlement that allows him to move forward. CNN, in a statement to Fox News Digital, affirmed its commitment to robust and impartial journalism while acknowledging the potential for learning from the case.
The lawsuit stemmed from a 2021 CNN segment that Young claimed implied he illegally profited from assisting people fleeing Afghanistan during the Biden administration's military withdrawal, labeling him a profiteer who exploited vulnerable Afghans. During the trial, Young's legal team presented internal CNN messages revealing staff hostility towards the veteran. One message, frequently cited during the proceedings, showed CNN correspondent Alex Marquardt expressing intent to "nail" Young.
