A former Nevada politician was sentenced to life imprisonment after being convicted of murdering journalist Jeff German in September 2022. As the jury’s foreperson delivered the verdict, Robert Telles, the former Clark County public administrator, appeared visibly distraught.
Telles received a life sentence but will be eligible for parole after serving a minimum of 20 years. Following the verdict, Clark County District Attorney Steven Wolfson expressed his gratitude to the jury, emphasizing that the verdict sends a strong message against attempts to silence the media or intimidate journalists.
Prosecutors argued that Telles, 47, stabbed German to death due to the journalist’s exposé of corruption within Telles’ office, which ultimately led to the collapse of both his political career and marriage. German reported a toxic work environment in Telles’ office, which included allegations of bullying and an improper relationship with an employee. Telles denied these claims.
Days after German’s body was discovered outside his Las Vegas home, Telles was arrested. Evidence, including DNA found in his home and items he wore during the crime, linked him to the murder. Telles, who pleaded not guilty, maintained his innocence during the trial, claiming he was a victim of a conspiracy orchestrated by a real estate company he was investigating.
Chief Deputy District Attorney Pamela Weckerly clarified that the case was solely about the murder. Telles took the stand, asserting he was framed. His defense attorney argued there were other individuals who might have wanted German dead due to his investigative work.
During the sentencing hearing, German’s siblings spoke eloquently about the impact he had on their lives. His brother, Jay, described him as a supportive leader, while his sister, Jill, recalled fond memories of him as a beloved uncle and journalist.
Telles’ family also addressed the court, with his wife and mother pleading for a life sentence that would allow for possible parole. However, prosecutors contended that a life sentence was warranted given the nature of the crime.
The case drew particular attention, as German was the only journalist killed in the United States in 2022, amid a disturbing trend of violence against journalists globally. Las Vegas Sheriff Joseph Lombardo remarked on the implications of harming a journalist, reinforcing the need for accountability.
Las Vegas Review-Journal executive editor Glenn Cook hailed the verdict as a significant step toward justice, noting that German was killed for his dedication to responsible journalism that held officials accountable. He remembered German not just as a journalist but as a valued family member and friend, whose loss continues to resonate within the community.