A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was sent to the Coles County Sheriff's Department on February 18, 2025. As members of East Central Reporter, a media organization committed to providing comprehensive and accurate news coverage on local governmental affairs, we requested specific records related to inmates with Immigration Detainers.
The documents requested include 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. We also asked for any requests from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security regarding civil enforcement that are reportable under the TRUST Act and/or the Illinois VOICES Act.
Additionally, we sought information about Immigration Detainers received from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, which are also reportable under these Illinois acts.
As a media organization, we believe in holding public institutions accountable and providing transparency to the public. Access to these public records is essential for us to fulfill our professional responsibilities. Given our role in disseminating information, we consider ourselves eligible for a fee waiver as media professionals.
We are also 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. We leverage Freedom of Information and Sunshine Laws to shed light on government actions and help inform the American electorate.
We await response from the Coles County Sheriff's Department regarding this request.
Alerts Sign-up