Robert Telles, a former Nevada politician, was sentenced to life in prison after being found guilty of murdering investigative journalist Jeff German in September 2022.
The jury’s decision on Wednesday, following two days of deliberation, brought to an end a high-profile case that drew national attention because of its implications for press freedom.
Telles, who served as the Clark County public administrator, was accused of fatally stabbing German after the journalist exposed corruption within his office. German’s reporting, published in the Las Vegas Review-Journal, focused on allegations of a hostile work environment, bullying, and an inappropriate relationship between Telles and a staff member—claims that Telles denied. The articles contributed to the unraveling of Telles’ political career and personal life.
During the trial, prosecutors presented evidence that linked Telles to the crime scene, including DNA discovered under German’s fingernails. Additionally, surveillance footage showed a suspect near German’s home wearing a straw hat and sneakers, which were later found cut up in Telles’ residence. Despite this, Telles maintained his innocence, claiming he was framed as part of a conspiracy involving a real estate company.
Chief Deputy District Attorney Pamela Weckerly emphasized that the case was solely about murder, not politics or workplace dynamics. The jury ultimately sided with the prosecution, convicting Telles of first-degree murder. He was sentenced to life in prison with the possibility of parole after serving a minimum of 20 years.
In a press conference following the verdict, Clark County District Attorney Steven Wolfson praised the jury’s work, stating that the outcome sent a clear message against attempts to intimidate or silence journalists.
“Today’s verdict should send a message that any attempts to silence the media will not be tolerated,” Wolfson told reporters.
According to the Committee to Protect Journalists, German was the only journalist murdered in the United States in 2022. Glenn Cook, Executive Editor of the Las Vegas Review-Journal, described the verdict as “a measure of justice” for German and other journalists dedicated to exposing the truth.
