A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was sent to the Macon County Sheriff's Department 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 department's facilities who have had an Immigration Detainer issued by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agency lodged against them since January 29, 2024.
Additionally, 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. This includes Immigration Detainers received from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
As members of Chambana Sun, we believe in holding public institutions accountable and providing transparency to the public. Access to public records is essential for us to fulfill our professional responsibilities. Given our role in disseminating information, we believe we are eligible for a fee waiver as media professionals.
We are also part of The Coalition Opposing Governmental Secrecy, a non-profit Missouri Corporation which assists news media companies, publications, and public advocacy groups investigate state and federal governmental agencies and leverages Freedom of Information and Sunshine Laws to pull back the curtain on government actions and help inform the American electorate.
We await a response from the Macon County Sheriff's Department regarding our request.
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