A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was sent to the Williamson County Sheriff's Office in Illinois on February 18, 2025. The request, filed by Chambana Sun, a media organization committed to comprehensive and accurate news coverage on local governmental affairs, sought specific records pertaining to inmates with Immigration Detainers.
The request specifically asked for documents and/or records showing persons committed to the facility that have had an Immigration Detainer issued by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agency lodged against them since January 29, 2024. Additionally, requests from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security regarding civil enforcement were also sought. These are reportable under the TRUST Act and the Illinois VOICES Act.
As members of Chambana Sun, we believe access to public records is essential for us to fulfill our professional responsibilities. This includes holding public institutions accountable and providing transparency to the public. Given our role in disseminating information, we requested a fee waiver as media professionals.
It should be noted that Chambana Sun is a member of The Coalition Opposing Governmental Secrecy, a non-profit corporation which assists news media companies in investigating state and federal governmental agencies using Freedom of Information and Sunshine Laws.
The purpose of this request is not only to shed light on current practices but also to inform the American electorate about government actions related to immigration enforcement.
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