South Central Reporter

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

A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was submitted to the Washington County Sheriff's Office in Illinois by South Central Reporter, a media organization focused on local governmental affairs. The request seeks access to all arrest records from January 1, 2023, to December 31, 2023. The requested data includes specific details such as the arrestee's name, sex, race, age, date of birth, and citizenship status. Additionally, information on the booking ID, date of arrest, booking photo, names of arresting officers, type and location of crime, and date of crime is sought.

The South Central Reporter emphasizes the importance of accessing public records for their role in holding public institutions accountable and ensuring transparency. They have also requested a fee waiver based on their status as a media organization. This request is part of their broader efforts with The Coalition Opposing Governmental Secrecy to investigate state and federal governmental agencies using FOIA and Sunshine Laws.

Our team will continue to keep you updated as we gather and report news related to this request and other matters of public interest. Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions or need further clarification regarding this matter.