East Central Reporter

FOIA Request to Cumberland County Sheriff regarding 2023 arrest records on September 24, 2025.

A request for public records has been submitted to the Cumberland County Sheriff's Office under the Illinois Freedom of Information Act. The request, sent by East Central Reporter, seeks access to all arrest records from January 1, 2023, to December 31, 2023. The information requested includes various data points such as the arrestee's name, sex, race, age, date of birth, citizenship status, booking ID, date of arrest, booking photo, names of arresting officers, type and location of crime, and date of crime.

The request emphasizes the importance of these records in enabling media professionals to fulfill their responsibilities in reporting news and holding public institutions accountable. As part of a media organization dedicated to comprehensive coverage of local governmental affairs, East Central Reporter has requested that these records be provided in electronic format. Additionally, they have sought a fee waiver citing their role in disseminating information to the public.

East Central Reporter is affiliated with The Coalition Opposing Governmental Secrecy—a non-profit organization assisting media companies and advocacy groups in investigating governmental agencies through Freedom of Information and Sunshine Laws. More details about this coalition can be found on their website: https://stopsecrecy.org/about/.

We look forward to receiving this information in an electronic format as it will greatly aid in our reporting efforts. As always, we remain open for any questions or clarifications regarding this request.