A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was sent to the Sangamon County Sheriff's Department regarding immigration detainer records on January 29, 2025. The request, made by us at the Sangamon Sun, seeks documents and/or records showing persons committed to county jails who have had an Immigration Detainer issued by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agency lodged against them since January 29, 2024.
As a media organization dedicated to providing comprehensive and accurate news coverage on local governmental affairs, we believe that access to public records is essential for fulfilling our professional responsibilities. These include holding public institutions accountable and providing transparency to the public.
We have requested these records under the Illinois Freedom of Information Act, 5 ILCS 140, preferably in electronic format. Given our role in disseminating information to the public, we also believe we are eligible for a fee waiver as a media professional.
We will continue to keep you updated on this matter as more information becomes available.
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