A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was sent to the Richland County Sheriff's Office in Illinois on February 18, 2025. The request was made by us at East Central Reporter, a media organization committed to providing comprehensive and accurate news coverage on local governmental affairs.
We requested 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 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.
Furthermore, we sought information about Immigration Detainers received from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, which are also reportable under these acts.
As a member of The Coalition Opposing Governmental Secrecy, a non-profit corporation assisting news media companies in investigating state and federal governmental agencies, we believe access to public records is essential for our professional responsibilities. These include holding public institutions accountable and providing transparency to the public.
Our goal is to leverage Freedom of Information and Sunshine Laws to pull back the curtain on government actions and help inform the American electorate. We believe that as media professionals involved in gathering and reporting news to the public, we are eligible for a fee waiver for this request.
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