A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was sent to the Saint Clair County Sheriff's office in Illinois on February 18, 2025. The request was made by Chambana Sun, a media organization dedicated to providing comprehensive and accurate news coverage on local governmental affairs.
The FOIA request specifically asked for documents and records showing persons committed to the Saint Clair County facility who have had an Immigration Detainer issued by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agency lodged against them since January 29, 2024.
In addition, the request sought information about 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.
Chambana Sun also requested access to Immigration Detainers received from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security that are reportable under these same acts.
As members of the media, we at Chambana Sun are involved in gathering and reporting news to the public. Access to public records is essential for us to fulfill our professional responsibilities, which include holding public institutions accountable and providing transparency to the public.
We believe we are eligible for a fee waiver as media professionals given our role in disseminating information. We are part 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 leveraging Freedom of Information and Sunshine Laws.
Our goal is to pull back the curtain on government actions and help inform the American electorate. For more information about our coalition, please visit https://stopsecrecy.org/about/.
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