A CNN executive defended a controversial news report currently under scrutiny in a high-stakes defamation lawsuit, even though the network previously issued an apology for a key element of the story. Emma Lacey-Bordeaux, CNN’s Senior Director for Standards and Practices, testified that the 2021 report concerning Navy veteran Zachary Young's involvement in evacuations from Afghanistan after the U.S. withdrawal was both "accurate" and "fair."

Young alleges the report, which aired on "The Lead with Jake Tapper," falsely implied he was involved in illicit activities and damaged his reputation. The lawsuit revolves around CNN correspondent Alex Marquardt's reporting, which Young claims misrepresented his actions and gave him insufficient time to respond to inquiries before the story aired.

During cross-examination, Young’s lawyer, Vel Freedman, questioned Lacey-Bordeaux about CNN’s internal policies, highlighting a requirement for early fact-checking, particularly weeks or months in advance. Lacey-Bordeaux admitted receiving the script only the day before it aired but maintained she had sufficient time for review. She also acknowledged not examining CNN's communications with Young prior to broadcast.

The trial also revealed internal CNN messages where reporter Katie Bo Lillis contacted Young without disclosing he was the subject of an impending story. While Lacey-Bordeaux claimed to be unaware of this exchange, she continued to defend the report's fairness. The court heard that Marquardt had referred to the phone call with Young as "theater," which Freedman suggested implied a staged interaction. Lacey-Bordeaux refuted this interpretation.

A key point of contention is the use of the phrase "black market" in the report's on-screen graphics. CNN issued an apology in 2022, clarifying they did not intend to accuse Young of black market participation. However, Lacey-Bordeaux, echoing other CNN employees, insisted the report was fair despite the apology. She also stated she hadn't reviewed the on-screen text beforehand, relying on the report's overall fairness.

A juror raised concerns about the accuracy of on-screen graphics, suggesting they should undergo the same fact-checking as other content. Lacey-Bordeaux acknowledged the juror’s point but maintained her confidence in the report's accuracy. The trial continues, with live streaming available on Fox News Digital.