Southern Illinois News

FOIA Request to Massac County Sheriff Office regarding 2023 arrest records on September 24, 2025.

A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was submitted to the Massac County Sheriff Office by Southern Illinois News on September 24, 2025. The request seeks access to all arrest records from January 1, 2023, to December 31, 2023. The requested data points include the arrestee's name, sex, race, age, date of birth, and citizenship status. Additionally, the request asks for booking ID numbers, dates of arrest, booking photos, names of arresting officers, types of crimes committed, locations and dates of crimes.

The Southern Illinois News is a media organization focused on delivering comprehensive news coverage related to local governmental affairs. As part of their journalistic duties to hold public institutions accountable and provide transparency to the public, they have requested these records under the Illinois Freedom of Information Act (5 ILCS 140). The organization has also sought a fee waiver for this request due to its role in disseminating information as a media entity.

The requester is affiliated with The Coalition Opposing Governmental Secrecy, a non-profit corporation that aids media companies and advocacy groups in investigating state and federal governmental agencies. This coalition utilizes Freedom of Information and Sunshine Laws to enhance government transparency and inform the electorate.

We look forward to receiving this information in an electronic format as it will greatly aid in our reporting efforts. As always, we remain open for any questions or clarifications regarding this request.