A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was submitted to the Logan County Sheriff's Office on February 18, 2025. The request pertains to specific records concerning inmates who have had an Immigration Detainer issued by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agency lodged against them since January 29, 2024.
As members of Sangamon Sun, a media organization committed to providing comprehensive and accurate news coverage on local governmental affairs, we are seeking access to these records under the Illinois Freedom of Information Act, 5 ILCS 140. We prefer these documents in electronic format for easy dissemination and analysis.
In addition to the records showing persons committed to this facility with Immigration Detainers, we are also requesting any related communications from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security regarding civil enforcement. These requests should be reportable under the TRUST Act and/or the Illinois VOICES Act.
We believe that as a media organization involved in gathering and reporting news to the public, access to these public records is essential for us to fulfill our professional responsibilities. These include holding public institutions accountable and providing transparency to the public.
We are part of The Coalition Opposing Governmental Secrecy, a non-profit organization 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.
Our goal is not only to gather information but also provide clarity on matters that affect our community directly. We look forward to receiving a response from Logan County Sheriff's Office regarding our request soon.