A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was sent to the Fayette County Sheriff Department in Illinois on February 18, 2025. The request was made by Prairie State Wire, a media organization dedicated to providing comprehensive and accurate news coverage on local governmental affairs.
In the FOIA request, we sought documents and records showing persons committed to the department's 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 requested any communication from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security regarding civil enforcement that is reportable under the TRUST Act and/or the Illinois VOICES Act. We also asked for any Immigration Detainers received from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security which are reportable under these same acts.
As a media organization, we believe access to public records is essential for us to fulfill our professional responsibilities. These include holding public institutions accountable and providing transparency to the public. We have requested a fee waiver as a media professional.
The Prairie State Wire is part of The Coalition Opposing Governmental Secrecy, a non-profit corporation assisting news media companies and public advocacy groups in investigating state and federal governmental agencies using Freedom of Information and Sunshine Laws.
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