A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was sent to the Vermilion County Sheriff's office on February 18, 2025. The request, made by a reporter from Chambana Sun, a media organization committed to comprehensive and accurate news coverage on local governmental affairs, sought specific information regarding inmates with Immigration Detainers.
The request specifically asked for documents and records showing persons committed to the Vermilion 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.
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.
As members of The Coalition Opposing Governmental Secrecy, we assist news media companies, publications, and public advocacy groups in investigating state and federal governmental agencies. We leverage Freedom of Information and Sunshine Laws to provide transparency into government actions and inform the American electorate.
We believe access to public records is essential for fulfilling our professional responsibilities which include holding public institutions accountable. As such, we have requested a fee waiver as a media professional in this case.
Our aim is to continue pulling back the curtain on government actions through our work at Chambana Sun and with the help of organizations like The Coalition Opposing Governmental Secrecy. For more information about our work, please visit https://stopsecrecy.org/about/.
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