A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was sent to the Douglas County Sheriff's Office in Illinois on February 18, 2025. The request was made by East Central Reporter, a media organization committed to providing comprehensive and accurate news coverage on local governmental affairs.
The 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. It also asks for any requests from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security regarding civil enforcement, which are reportable under the TRUST Act and/or the Illinois VOICES Act.
Additionally, it includes a demand for Immigration Detainers received from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, which are also reportable under these same acts.
As members of East Central Reporter, we believe 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. Given our role in disseminating information, we requested a fee waiver as media professionals.
We would like to note that East Central Reporter is a member of The Coalition Opposing Governmental Secrecy, a non-profit Missouri Corporation assisting news media companies, publications, and public advocacy groups investigate state and federal governmental agencies using Freedom of Information and Sunshine Laws. This aims at pulling back the curtain on government actions and helping inform the American electorate.
We await response from the Douglas County Sheriff's Office regarding this matter.
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