A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was submitted to the Lawrence County Sheriff's Office in Illinois on February 18, 2025. The request, made by a reporter from East Central Reporter, sought information regarding inmates who have had Immigration Detainers issued against them by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agency since January 29, 2024.
The FOIA request also asked for any communication received from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security concerning civil enforcement that is reportable under the TRUST Act and/or the Illinois VOICES Act. Furthermore, it sought details about Immigration Detainers received from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security which are also reportable under these Acts.
As members of East Central Reporter, we believe that access to public records is crucial for us to fulfill our professional responsibilities, which include holding public institutions accountable and providing transparency to the public. We are part of The Coalition Opposing Governmental Secrecy, a non-profit organization that assists news media companies in investigating state and federal governmental agencies using Freedom of Information and Sunshine Laws.
Our aim is to pull back the curtain on government actions and help inform the American electorate. We continue to advocate for transparency and accountability in all levels of government through our journalistic endeavors.
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