American Tortured in Syria's Notorious Prison System: A Family's Extraordinary Fight for Release

Sam Goodwin, a 30-year-old American, was detained in Syria's prison system for 62 days. Held in solitary confinement and threatened with torture, he endured unimaginable hardships. His family worked tirelessly to secure his release, navigating complex political territories and facing seemingly insurmountable obstacles.

Sam Goodwin's journey to visit every country in the world took a harrowing turn when he entered Syria in 2019. After a brief stay in Qamishli, a city on the Turkey-Syria border, he was arrested and held in Syria's notorious Military Intelligence Branch 215.

For 27 days, Goodwin endured solitary confinement, subsisting on bread, boiled potatoes, and water. Isolated and interrogated relentlessly, he feared for his life. Yet, amidst the darkness, he found strength in his Catholic faith, his world travels, and the determination to return to his loved ones.

American Tortured in Syria's Notorious Prison System: A Family's Extraordinary Fight for Release

Transferred to Adra Prison, Goodwin encountered a sense of camaraderie with fellow inmates. They shared food, taught each other languages, and found solace in their shared plight. One inmate risked his life to smuggle a note out of prison, alerting Goodwin's family to his detention.

Meanwhile, Goodwin's family embarked on an arduous journey to secure his release. They reached out to the FBI, CIA, State Department, and even the Vatican. Through sheer persistence and unwavering belief, they contacted General Abbas Ibrahim, Lebanon's General Security Director, who played a crucial role in mediating with Syria.

American Tortured in Syria's Notorious Prison System: A Family's Extraordinary Fight for Release

After months of prayers, meetings, and negotiations, Goodwin's release was finally arranged. Driven to Lebanon, he was reunited with his parents, who had flown in from the United States. The moment was bittersweet, marked by both immense joy and the haunting memories of Goodwin's ordeal.

Goodwin's family played an instrumental role in his liberation. Their relentless efforts, reaching out to high-ranking officials and navigating international diplomacy, demonstrated their extraordinary love and determination. The family's unwavering support, both during and after Goodwin's detention, served as a beacon of hope and resilience.

American Tortured in Syria's Notorious Prison System: A Family's Extraordinary Fight for Release

As Goodwin reflects on his experience, he emphasizes the humanity and kindness he witnessed within the bleak prison walls. The inmates, despite their own hardships, went out of their way to support him. Their actions reinforced his belief in the inherent goodness of people, even in the face of adversity.

Goodwin's story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, the power of family, and the importance of never giving up hope. Despite the unimaginable hardships he endured, he emerged from prison determined to share his experiences and advocate for those who remain unjustly detained. His journey serves as an inspiration to all who face moments of darkness and strive for freedom and justice.

American Tortured in Syria's Notorious Prison System: A Family's Extraordinary Fight for Release