During a White House press briefing on April 16, 2025, Patty Morin, the mother of murder victim Rachel Morin, made a heartfelt and direct appeal to the reporters in the room. Invited by White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, Morin spoke emotionally about the tragic death of her daughter, Rachel, who was murdered in 2023 by Salvadoran fugitive Victor Martinez-Hernandez. Morin recounted the brutal details of the attack and shared the devastating impact of her loss.
Morin’s emotional plea included a simple yet powerful request: “Please tell the truth,” as she emphasized the importance of honest and accurate media coverage. Her words resonated deeply in the press room, highlighting the personal anguish behind the stories that often get lost in political discussions.
The White House used Morin’s story to underscore the administration’s focus on removing violent criminals from the country, particularly through deportation efforts. Press Secretary Leavitt expressed frustration over the media’s focus on certain immigration cases while downplaying others, like the case of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, who was wrongfully deported to El Salvador.
By inviting Patty Morin, the administration aimed to draw attention to the urgency of addressing violent crime and the importance of holding individuals accountable. Morin’s powerful statement served as a reminder of the personal toll these issues take on families and communities.