A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was sent to the Fulton County Sheriff's Office in Illinois on February 18, 2025. The request was made by a representative from Peoria Standard, a media organization dedicated to providing comprehensive and accurate news coverage on local governmental affairs.
The FOIA request sought records pertaining to 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, the request asked for any communications from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security regarding civil enforcement that are reportable under the TRUST Act and/or the Illinois VOICES Act. These laws are designed to protect immigrants' rights and promote transparency in law enforcement practices related to immigration.
Furthermore, we requested copies of any Immigration Detainers received from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security that are also reportable under these acts.
As members of Peoria Standard and The Coalition Opposing Governmental Secrecy, a non-profit organization that assists news media companies in investigating state and federal governmental agencies, we believe it is our duty to provide transparency and hold public institutions accountable. We leverage Freedom of Information and Sunshine Laws to shed light on government actions and help inform the American electorate.
We hope this information will aid us in our mission to provide comprehensive news coverage on local governmental affairs.