A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was submitted to the Henderson County Sheriff Department on February 18, 2025. The request was made by a representative from Galesburg Reporter, a media organization dedicated to providing comprehensive and accurate news coverage on local governmental affairs.
The request specifically sought documents and records showing persons 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. Additionally, it asked for any requests from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security regarding civil enforcement that are reportable under the TRUST Act or the Illinois VOICES Act.
The request also included Immigration Detainers received from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security that are reportable under these same acts. As members of the media, we at Galesburg Reporter rely on access to public records in order to fulfill our professional responsibilities, which include holding public institutions accountable and providing transparency to the public.
As part of our commitment to transparency and accountability, we are also members of The Coalition Opposing Governmental Secrecy, a non-profit corporation that assists news media companies, publications, and public advocacy groups in investigating state and federal governmental agencies using Freedom of Information and Sunshine Laws.
Our aim is to pull back the curtain on government actions and help inform the American electorate about what is happening behind closed doors in our government institutions. We believe this work is essential for maintaining a healthy democracy where citizens are informed about their government's actions.
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