The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) is a state statute that provides the public the
right to access government documents and records. The premise behind FOIA is that the
public has a right to know what the government is doing. The law provides that a person
can ask a public body for a copy of its records on a specific subject and the public body
must provide those records, unless there is an exemption in the statute that protects those
records from disclosure (for example: records containing information concerning trade
secrets or personal privacy).
The Geneva Police Department complies not only with the specifics of the Illinois Freedom of Information Act, but with the spirit behind it. Many documents are not readily available to the general public. In order to obtain a copy of a document, we ask that you please fill out the following form or submit your request in writing. The following information has been provided to help better understand this process.
The Illinois Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) is designed to ensure that Illinois residents can obtain information about their government. In 2009, Attorney General Lisa Madigan worked with legislators and a diverse group of individuals and organizations to strengthen FOIA and hold government more accountable. Beginning on January 1, 2010, key changes to the Freedom of Information Act will take effect and in turn will provide Illinois residents with a more open and accountable government. These Frequently Asked Questions provided by the Attorney General's office describe some of the FOIA provisions that will take effect on January 1, 2010.
Who can file a FOIA request?
Anyone. Any person, group, association, corporation, firm, partnership or organization
has the right to file a FOIA request to any state or local public body, including any city,
township or county office.