FOIA Request to Mercer County Sheriff's Department Regarding Inmate Immigration Detainers on February 18, 2025.
As part of our ongoing commitment to provide comprehensive and accurate news coverage on local governmental affairs, we at Chambana Sun have requested records under the Illinois Freedom of Information Act from the Mercer County Sheriff's Department. The request specifically seeks documents and/or records showing persons committed to their 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, we have asked for any requests from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security regarding civil enforcement, which are reportable under the TRUST Act and/or the Illinois VOICES Act. This also includes any Immigration Detainers received from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
Our role as a media organization involves 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 a media professional.
We are also 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. This coalition leverages Freedom of Information and Sunshine Laws to reveal government actions and help inform the American electorate.
We will continue to keep you updated as we strive for transparency in our local government.
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