Former Syrian Prison Commander Faces Up to 80 Years for Torture in U.S. Court

Samir Ousman Alsheikh, who oversaw the notorious Adra Prison in Syria from roughly 2005 to 2008, was convicted in March of one count of conspiracy to commit torture and three counts of torture, as well as immigration fraud for hiding his crimes while seeking U.S. residency. During the two-week trial, three former detainees testified about severe abuse, including being hung from ceiling pipes and forced onto a device that folded their bodies, with Alsheikh personally stepping on the apparatus.

The Department of Justice argues he knowingly ordered and participated in the torture, requesting a sentence of at least 80 years. Defense attorneys Nina Marino and Collin Cate, citing his 74-year age, medical and cognitive issues, and willingness to be sent back to Syria, ask for a five-year term. The sentencing hearing is set for Thursday before U.S. District Judge Hernan D. Vera in Los Angeles.