The State Department launched an investigation after a foreign correspondent for CNN allegedly bit two medical workers during a drunken fit at the US Embassy in Baghdad.
Senior international correspondent Arwa Damon was said to be intoxicated and abusive to medics stationed on the grounds of the embassy, and bit both EMTs on their forearms as they tried to treat her on July 19, according to a $2 million lawsuit they filed against Damon and CNN in Manhattan on Monday.
The papers say Damon, 36, bit EMTs Tracy Lamar and Charles Simons as they tried to help her, before threatening them and saying she was a “major reporter for CNN.” The suit claims CNN hired Damon knowing she “has a history of becoming intoxicated and then abusive,” and a “penchant for violence even when sober.”
A source tells Page Six, “The State Department prepared a report on the incident, which was sent to CNN.” But Damon continued working for the network, where we’re told she is well-regarded.
Page Six can also reveal a sobered-up Damon later wrote a groveling apology to US Embassy staff about her “disastrous behavior,” which she claims she doesn’t fully remember.
She said in an e-mail: “It’s been an extremely stressful time, I was exhausted, I had not had proper food all day and clearly miscalculated how my body would handle the alcohol consumed … Needless to say, I am utterly mortified and take full responsibility for my actions, which are inexcusable.”
She added, “I am being filled in on the details of my behavior. I am beyond embarrassed. My actions and words were entirely out of my character, and I hope that everyone can at some point forgive me.”
“So once again, I am apologizing and extending my thanks to all that were involved in ensuring that I am, thankfully, in the end, taken care of and physically at least OK. Everyone was extremely professional and courteous in the face of my unjustified behavior,” she continued.
Last night, CNN top brass still didn’t seem to be fully aware of the drama. A CNN rep said, “We are not aware of the alleged lawsuit and, therefore, have no comment.”
The EMTs’ lawyer, David Jaroslawicz, added, “To get so very drunk and attack people who are trying to help you is somewhat disturbing, particularly as a reporter.”