A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was submitted to the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office in Illinois on February 18, 2025. The request, sent by North Egypt News, a media organization dedicated to providing comprehensive and accurate news coverage on local governmental affairs, sought specific information regarding inmates with Immigration Detainers.
The records requested pertain to individuals committed to the facility who have had an Immigration Detainer issued by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agency lodged against them since January 29, 2024.
In addition, the request also sought information about requests from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security regarding civil enforcement that are reportable under the TRUST Act and/or the Illinois VOICES Act. The same applies for Immigration Detainers received from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
As members of North Egypt News, we believe that 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 have requested a fee waiver as media professionals.
We are part of The Coalition Opposing Governmental Secrecy, a non-profit Missouri Corporation 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 reveal government actions and help inform the American electorate.
For more information about our work and mission, please visit https://stopsecrecy.org/about/.
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