They Were Supposed to Help: How the System Failed John Albers
SAY THEIR NAME - Episode 9
Sheila Albers never expected her life would become a public campaign for justice. But after her 17-year-old son, John Albers, was killed by police in their driveway, her grief turned into a powerful push for reform. Sheila’s journey, featured in this episode of the Say Their Name podcast, is a heartbreaking yet inspiring example of how one mother’s determination can shine a light on systemic failures in policing—and call for meaningful change.
A Vibrant Life Cut Short
John Albers was a bright, athletic teenager who had been adopted from Belarus as a baby. He loved sports, his friends, and had a vibrant future ahead. But on January 20, 2018, that future was stolen when police responded to a mental health call at his home.
As John slowly backed his minivan out of the garage, a police officer fired 13 shots—killing him on the spot.
“This wasn’t just about a lack of training—it was a complete failure of the system meant to protect our children.” – Sheila Albers
The Aftermath and Unanswered Questions
The police narrative didn’t sit right with Sheila. The officer claimed he feared for his life, but body cam footage showed otherwise. What followed only deepened the pain:
A lack of transparency in the investigation
A $70,000 payout and clean record for the officer who resigned
No criminal charges filed
A public left in the dark
“I didn’t know the police could lie to you like that.” – Sheila Albers
Turning Grief Into Advocacy
Rather than retreat into silence, Sheila stepped forward. Her advocacy has exposed deep cracks in how police respond to mental health crises and how families are treated after deadly force incidents. Through tireless work, she’s:
Pushed for national and local policy changes
Partnered with advocacy organizations
Educated lawmakers and the public about de-escalation training
Called out systems that protect officers instead of the public
A Call to Action
Sheila’s story is not just a personal tragedy—it’s a rallying cry. Here’s how you can stand with her and help prevent future tragedies:
Demand Police Transparency in officer-involved shootings
Support Mental Health Crisis Response Reform
Push for Real Accountability—end resignation deals that protect bad actors
Educate Your Community about civilian oversight and public safety policy
Amplify John’s Story and others like his
Honoring John’s Legacy
Through Sheila’s voice, John’s memory lives on—not just as a victim of police violence, but as a beloved son who should still be here. Her advocacy ensures that his story isn’t forgotten—and that change continues to grow in his name.
Listen to the full episode to hear Sheila Albers share her family’s story, the unanswered questions around John’s death, and the work she’s doing to ensure no other family has to endure the same pain. Join the Say Their Name community in honoring John Albers—and pushing for justice.
Ready to dive deeper into the Albers family’s story? Listen to the full episode for more on the life of John and Sheila’s fight for justice. And remember, until truth and justice are obtained, we will always Say Their Name.
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