U.S. Citizen Tortured in Syria Wins $20M Verdict Against Assad Regime

In a landmark ruling, a Washington, D.C. federal judge has ordered Syria to pay $20.2 million to Sam Goodwin, a St. Louis native who endured 63 days of torture and captivity in Syria’s notorious prison system in 2019. The judgment, secured under the Foreign Sovereign Immunities Act’s terrorism exception, includes $10 million in compensatory damages and another $10 million in punitive damages, shining a spotlight on the Assad regime’s brutal human rights abuses.

Goodwin, a former collegiate hockey player, was on a bold quest to visit every country when he was seized by Syrian military forces while on FaceTime with his mother. Held in solitary confinement at the infamous Branch 215 facility, he faced relentless interrogation and threats, including being handed over to ISIS. His ordeal ended thanks to the tireless efforts of his family, Lebanese officials, and U.S. agencies, including the FBI and CIA.

“This isn’t just about me,” Goodwin said. “It’s a stand for anyone who’s suffered human rights abuses. I hope it inspires others to speak out and warns regimes that these crimes won’t be forgotten.” Roughly half of the damages will be paid through the U.S. Victims of State-Sponsored Terrorism Fund, though payments may stretch over years depending on available funds.

The ruling marks another victory for Miller & Chevalier, the law firm that also secured a $50 million judgment for another American tortured in Syria. “Survivors like Sam ensure the world doesn’t turn a blind eye to Assad’s atrocities,” said lead counsel Kirby Behre. This judgment isn’t just a win for Goodwin—it’s a call for justice that echoes globally.