East Central Reporter

FOIA Request to Jasper County Sheriff Regarding Inmate Records with ICE Detainers on February 18, 2025.

As part of our ongoing commitment to providing comprehensive and accurate news coverage on local governmental affairs, we at East Central Reporter have sent a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request to the Jasper County Sheriff in Illinois. The request was sent on February 18, 2025.

The FOIA request seeks documents and records showing persons committed to the facility that have had an Immigration Detainer issued by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agency lodged against them since January 29, 2024.

Additionally, we have requested information about any requests from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security regarding civil enforcement that are reportable under the TRUST Act or the Illinois VOICES Act. We are also seeking records of Immigration Detainers received from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security that fall under these same acts.

As a media organization, access to public records is essential for us to fulfill our professional responsibilities which include holding public institutions accountable and providing transparency to the public. We believe we are eligible for a fee waiver as a media professional.

We would like to note that we are members of The Coalition Opposing Governmental Secrecy, a non-profit corporation that assists news media companies, publications, and public advocacy groups investigate state and federal governmental agencies. This coalition leverages Freedom of Information and Sunshine Laws to shed light on government actions and help inform the American electorate.

We await a response from the Jasper County Sheriff's office and will continue our efforts in providing transparency and accountability in local government affairs.