A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was submitted to the Calhoun County Sheriff's Office in Illinois on January 29, 2025. The request, made by us at West Central Reporter, sought documents and 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 access to such public records is crucial for fulfilling our professional responsibilities. These include holding public institutions accountable and ensuring transparency for the public.
We requested these records under the Illinois Freedom of Information Act, 5 ILCS 140, preferably in electronic format. Given our role in gathering and disseminating information to the public, we also asked for a fee waiver as a media professional.
The request is part of our ongoing efforts to shed light on immigration enforcement practices within local jurisdictions. We will continue to work diligently towards keeping our readers informed about significant issues affecting their communities.
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