A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was sent to the Ford 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 records requested pertain to persons committed to the facility who have had an Immigration Detainer issued by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agency lodged against them since January 29, 2024. The FOIA request also seeks documents related to 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.
In addition, the FOIA request seeks access to Immigration Detainers received from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, which are also reportable under these two acts.
As members of Chambana Sun, we 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. Given our role in disseminating information, we believe we are eligible for a fee waiver as media professionals.
We would like to note that we are members 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. We leverage Freedom of Information and Sunshine Laws to pull back the curtain on government actions and help inform the American electorate.
We look forward to receiving a response from Ford County Sheriff's office regarding this matter soon.
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