East Central Reporter

The Illinois State Police (ISP) have responded to a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request regarding Dolson Township in Clark County. The request, made by Edgar County Watchdogs, sought records related to complaints and investigations about the township since January 1, 2025.

In their initial response, ISP stated: “ISP is extending the response due date for an additional five business days for the following reasons:

   X    The requested records have not yet been located and additional time is needed to complete the search.

   X    The requested records require examination and evaluation to determine if the documents are exempt from disclosure and/or must be redacted.

   X    The requested records cannot be provided within the prescribed time frame without causing an undue burden or interfering with the operation of ISP.”

A subsequent reply from ISP further explained: “ISP is unable to provide any records in the statutorily allotted timeframe without disproportionately burdening our operations. Continuing to search for, compile, and redact records in response to this request would be unduly burdensome, pursuant to Section 3(g) of FOIA. Accordingly, ISP is extending you the opportunity to narrow the scope and reduce your request to manageable proportions.”

According to Edgar County Watchdogs, only three types of documents were originally requested: copies of all complaints or requests for investigation related to Dolson Township since January 1, 2025; copies of all investigation records concerning Dolson Township during that period; and copies of subpoenas issued as part of any such investigation. The organization noted that they had previously received similar information but now face increased difficulty obtaining it.

It was also reported that no subpoenas have been issued regarding Dolson Township according to township officials. In light of this information, Edgar County Watchdogs narrowed their FOIA request by changing its start date from January 1, 2025, to May 1, 2025.

An update provided by the township attorney confirmed that the Dolson Township Clerk has resigned.