Records Request: Investigation Files and Actions by Heather Stertz

Alexander Lennon filed this request with the Dane County Department Of Human Services of Dane County, WI.
Due Dec. 5, 2024
Est. Completion None
Status
Awaiting Response

From: Alexander Lennon

To Whom It May Concern:

Pursuant to the Wisconsin Open Records Act, I hereby request the following records:

To Whom It May Concern:

Pursuant to Wisconsin’s Open Records Law (Wis. Stat. § 19.31-19.39), I am formally requesting all records, communications, and documents related to the work conducted by Heather Stertz concerning Alexander, Tanya, Lincoln, Milania, and Liam Lennon from May 15, 2023, to the present.

Specifically, I am seeking:

Case notes and reports from any investigations involving these individuals.
Communications between Heather Stertz and law enforcement or any other agency concerning these cases.
Emails, text messages, or memos reflecting recommendations made by Heather Stertz.
Internal records and decision-making documents tied to the CPS investigation.
Documentation of any delays or actions taken regarding charging recommendations.
This information is critical to ensure accountability and transparency regarding the handling of investigations involving these individuals and to assess the integrity of the findings. If any part of the requested information is withheld or redacted, please provide a written explanation citing the specific exemptions relied upon.

In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.

Please acknowledge receipt of this request within 10 business days. I appreciate your prompt attention to this matter.

Sincerely,

Alex Lennon

The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.

In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.

Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 10 business days.

Sincerely,

Alexander Lennon

From: Dane County Department Of Human Services

Please see the attached letter and document. You can respond here or send form to record.request@danecounty.gov

From: Alexander Lennon

Dear Constance J. Vanderhoef,

Thank you for your response and for outlining the confidentiality laws that govern the requested records.

As a family member directly affected by these cases and investigations, I believe I meet the criteria under Wis. Stat. § 19.35 and relevant statutory exceptions to access the requested records. This request is made to ensure transparency and accountability in the handling of investigations involving my family members. Specifically, I am concerned about the potential for misconduct, including whether Heather Stertz may have been involved in covering up fraud related to FoodShare, BadgerCare, childcare, and unemployment benefits. It is vital to assess the integrity of the findings to address any potential harm caused by improper handling.

I will promptly complete and return the release of information form to fulfill your procedural requirements. If any part of the requested records is withheld or redacted, I respectfully request a written explanation citing the specific exemptions relied upon.

Should you require any further information to process my request, please do not hesitate to contact me back via Muckrock.

Thank you for your time and cooperation.

Sincerely,
Alex Lennon