A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was submitted to the Winnebago County Sheriff's Department in Illinois on February 18, 2025. The request was made by a reporter from Rockford Sun, a media organization committed to providing comprehensive and accurate news coverage on local governmental affairs.
The FOIA request specifically sought documents and records showing persons committed to the facility that 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 included inquiries for any requests from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security regarding civil enforcement, which are reportable under the TRUST Act and/or the Illinois VOICES Act. Also requested were Immigration Detainers received from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security that fall under these same acts.
As members of Rockford Sun and The Coalition Opposing Governmental Secrecy, we believe access to public records is essential for us to fulfill our professional responsibilities, which include holding public institutions accountable and providing transparency to the public. We hope this action will further illuminate government actions and help inform the American electorate.
For more information about our coalition's work, please visit https://stopsecrecy.org/about/.
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