A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was sent to the Hancock County Sheriff's office on January 29, 2025. The request, made by West Central Reporter, a media organization dedicated to providing comprehensive and accurate news coverage on local governmental affairs, seeks access to specific records related to immigration detainers.
In the request, we asked for 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, we are deeply involved in gathering and reporting news to the public. 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. Given our role in disseminating information, we believe we are eligible for a fee waiver as a media professional.
The Illinois Freedom of Information Act, under which this request was made, allows citizens and organizations access to public records in order to promote transparency and accountability in government.
We will continue our commitment towards keeping the public informed about local governmental affairs through thorough investigative journalism.
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