OVERLAND PARK, Kan. (AP) — A Kansas City suburb has been ordered to turn over records related to the 2018 police killing of a teenager after the media sued for the documents.
A judge found that that the severance agreement for former Overland Park officer Clayton Jenison must be disclosed under the Kansas Open Records Act.
Jenison, who was paid $70,000 through the agreement, didn’t face charges for fatally shooting 17-year-old John Albers as he was backing a minivan out of his family’s garage. The officer had responded to the home because the teen was believed to be suicidal.
Kansas City Star Editor Mike Fannin said the ruling underscores that the government doesn’t get to withhold public records. “In a tragic case such as this one, sunshine is vital,” he said.
The teen’s mom, Sheila Albers, said the ruling means there will be some justice for her son. The family previously reached a $2.3 million settlement with the city in a wrongful death lawsuit.
Overland Park spokesman Sean Reilly said the city may comment later. The city could appeal the order, but would have to wait until the judge rules on attorneys fees.
While the lawsuit is continuing as a result, Overland Park could release the documents at any point.