Navy Veteran Pursues Nearly $500 Million Defamation Suit Against Associated Press

Navy Veteran Pursues Nearly $500 Million Defamation Suit Against Associated Press

Navy veteran Zachary Young has launched a defamation lawsuit against the Associated Press, seeking nearly $500 million in damages. The dramatic legal move follows a prior successful defamation case against CNN earlier this year.

Damages Breakdown in Defamation Claim

Younger is claiming substantial financial losses in his lawsuit. Specifically, he requests at least $18 million for economic damages, $50 to $75 million for harm to his reputation, $5 to $10 million for emotional distress, and a staggering $300 to $350 million in punitive damages. These figures were outlined in a Notice of Filing that was made accessible to media outlets.

Allegations Against Associated Press

Young’s case accuses the Associated Press of publishing defamatory content that extends beyond previous claims made by CNN. In January, the AP reported that Young’s business had allegedly engaged in smuggling activities during the chaotic evacuation from Afghanistan in 2021, as Americans and Afghan allies attempted to flee amidst the military withdrawal led by the Biden administration. The AP’s assertion stated that Young “helped smuggle people out of Afghanistan,” drawing a strong rebuttal from his legal team.

Legal Team’s Response to AP Reporting

Young’s counsel, Daniel Lustig from the law firm Pike & Lustig, has argued that the AP’s reporting represents a significant escalation of falsehoods compared to CNN’s earlier claims. Lustig noted that the lawsuit includes 40 articles from the Associated Press that characterized Young’s actions as smuggling, which he argues misrepresents the nature of his work and harms his reputation.

Requests for Internal Communications and Documentation

As part of the legal proceedings, Young’s legal team has demanded internal communications from the Associated Press. They seek any documents that relate to Young, editing decisions surrounding the contested article, and reference materials that include the term “smuggling.” The request also encompasses all editorial documents that reflect the AP’s standards, guidelines, and training practices.

Background on Previous Success Against CNN

Young previously made headlines when he succeeded in a defamation suit against CNN earlier in the year, winning a jury decision that awarded him $4 million in lost earnings and $1 million for personal damages, including pain and suffering. The jury’s findings also indicated that Young was defamed, leading to calls for punitive damages against CNN. However, a settlement regarding punitive damages was achieved prior to the jury making a final determination.

Additional Justifications for Damages

In the Notice of Filing, Lustig elaborates on the basis for the substantial figures being sought. According to him, expert testimonies that emerged during the CNN trial supply backing for the damage claims. He states that these amounts reflect the significant impact of the defamatory statements on Young’s life and career.

Associated Press Response and Defense

Despite the allegations, the Associated Press has firmly defended its reporting. An AP spokesperson asserted that their report was accurate and reflective of the jury’s findings in Young’s prior case. They described the lawsuit as frivolous, vowing to robustly defend their position in court.

Ongoing Legal Proceedings

The exact financial figures that Young is pursuing may be subject to adjustment as the case progresses through discovery. As of now, Young is proceeding with his lawsuit in Bay County, Florida, the same jurisdiction where he successfully took on CNN.

Potential Implications for Future Reporting

This ongoing legal battle raises important questions about journalistic standards and the impact of reporting on individuals’ reputations. As the case unfolds, it could set precedence regarding liability for media organizations in defamation cases, particularly those involving military veterans and sensitive topics such as war and evacuation.

A Continued Fight for Reputation

Ultimately, Young’s pursuit of justice against the Associated Press represents more than just a legal matter; it is a deeply personal quest for vindication. As the court proceedings develop, both parties will likely face increased scrutiny. Observers will watch closely to see how this case will influence the relationship between media reporting and the individuals it covers.