Former Las Vegas Politician Robert Telles Found Guilty of Murdering Investigative Journalist Jeff German
In a shocking turn of events, a Nevada jury has found former Las Vegas-area politician Robert Telles guilty of murder in the brutal killing of investigative journalist Jeff German. German, who had written critical articles about Telles’ conduct while in office, was found slashed and stabbed to death in the side yard of his home over Labor Day weekend in 2022.
Jury Deliberation and Verdict
Telles, 47, displayed visible emotion as the verdict was read in Clark County District Court. He hung his head and shook it slightly from side to side. The jury deliberated for nearly 12 hours after an eight-day trial that began on August 12. The case has captivated the Las Vegas community, with many closely following the trial’s developments.
The Crime and Evidence Presented
Jeff German, a respected journalist with a 44-year career covering crime, courts, and corruption in Las Vegas, had written several articles in May and June 2022 exposing turmoil and allegations of bullying within the Clark County Public Administrator/Guardian office. His reporting also shed light on a romantic relationship between Telles and an employee. Telles lost his re-election bid shortly after these stories were published.
On September 2, 2022, just hours after learning that German was working on another story, Telles allegedly attacked German at his home. Prosecutors presented compelling evidence, including a timeline and surveillance videos that showed Telles’ maroon SUV near German’s home around the time of the murder. The vehicle was later identified as being driven by a person wearing a bright orange outfit, similar to one seen on security footage at the crime scene.
Key evidence in the case included DNA matching Telles found beneath German’s fingernails, which prosecutors argued was proof of a violent struggle between the two men. Prosecutor Christopher Hamner told jurors that the evidence was like “connecting the dots,” leading to an undeniable conclusion of Telles’ guilt.
Defense Arguments and Testimony
Telles, who has been held without bail since his arrest, denied any involvement in German’s death, claiming that he was the victim of a broad conspiracy orchestrated by individuals seeking revenge for his efforts to root out corruption. During his testimony, Telles stated, “I am not the kind of person who would stab someone. I didn’t kill Mr. German.”
His defense attorney, Robert Draskovich, attempted to cast doubt on the prosecution’s case by showing the jury an image of a person whose profile did not resemble Telles driving the maroon SUV. Draskovich also pointed out that none of German’s blood or DNA was found on Telles, his vehicle, or his home, questioning the thoroughness of the investigation.
Sentencing and Penalty Phase
With the guilty verdict now rendered, the case moves to the penalty phase, where jurors will hear additional testimony and review more evidence before determining Telles’ sentence. While prosecutors are not seeking the death penalty, Telles faces the possibility of life in prison without parole. Other potential sentences include life with parole eligibility after 20 years or a term of 20 to 50 years in prison. A conviction for the use of a deadly weapon could add an additional one to eight years to his sentence.
The judge will impose the final sentence at a hearing scheduled later.
Legacy of Jeff German
Jeff German was the only journalist killed in the United States in 2022, according to the Committee to Protect Journalists. His death has sent shockwaves through the media community, highlighting the dangers faced by journalists who report on influential figures and sensitive issues. German’s colleagues and family members attended the trial but declined to comment publicly.
The trial of Robert Telles has revealed the risks that journalists face in their pursuit of truth and accountability. As the legal proceedings continue, the case serves as a sad reminder of the vital role that investigative journalism plays in society.