
Former Las Vegas public official Robert Telles has been found guilty of first-degree murder in the brutal stabbing death of investigative journalist Jeff German, highlighting the dangers faced by reporters who expose corruption.
At a Glance
- Robert Telles, 47, convicted of murdering Las Vegas Review-Journal reporter Jeff German
- German, 69, was stabbed seven times outside his home in September 2022
- Telles faces up to life in prison; sentencing is pending
- Case raises concerns about press freedom and safety of local journalists
Verdict Delivered After Two-Week Trial
A Clark County jury has found former Nevada politician Robert Telles guilty of first-degree murder in the shocking 2022 killing of veteran Las Vegas journalist Jeff German. The verdict comes after a two-week trial that captivated the nation and highlighted the risks faced by investigative reporters. Telles, 47, had been jailed since his arrest in September 2022 for the brutal stabbing of German outside the reporter’s home.
The jury of 12 deliberated for two days before reaching their decision. Telles, who had pleaded not guilty and claimed he was framed, now faces up to life in prison. The conviction sends a strong message about the importance of protecting journalists and the freedom of the press in America.
The jury in the trial of Robert Telles found the former Clark County, Nevada, elected official guilty of murder in the death of investigative reporter Jeff German on Wednesday. https://t.co/aXbcFt4n7f pic.twitter.com/3vsyphW0o6
— CBS News (@CBSNews) August 28, 2024
Evidence Points to Revenge Killing
Prosecutors argued that Telles, a former Clark County public administrator elected in 2018, killed German over a series of critical articles the journalist had written about his behavior in office. These reports alleged an inappropriate relationship and hostile work environment under Telles’s leadership, ultimately contributing to his loss in the primary for a second term.
“Jeff was killed for doing the kind of work in which he took great pride: His reporting held an elected official accountable for bad behavior and empowered voters to choose someone else for the job.” – Glenn Cook, Executive Editor of the Las Vegas Review-Journal
The prosecution presented damning evidence against Telles, including DNA found under German’s fingernails that matched the defendant. Security footage showed an assailant in a distinctive straw hat and sneakers outside German’s home, with similar items later found cut up at Telles’s residence. The timeline presented by prosecutors, along with video of Telles’s SUV near the crime scene, painted a compelling picture of his guilt.
A Chilling Message to Journalists
The murder of Jeff German, a respected investigative reporter with over four decades of experience, has sent shockwaves through the journalism community. This case underscores the very real dangers faced by reporters who work tirelessly to hold public officials accountable and expose wrongdoing.
“Today also brought a measure of justice for slain journalists all over the world,” Cook added. “Our jobs are increasingly risky and sometimes dangerous. In many countries, the killers of journalists go unpunished. Not so in Las Vegas.” – Glenn Cook, Executive Editor of the Las Vegas Review-Journal
As the nation grapples with increasing attacks on the media, this verdict serves as a reminder of the vital role that a free and unfettered press plays in our democracy. It also highlights the need for greater protections for journalists who risk their lives to bring the truth to light.
The conviction of Robert Telles may bring some measure of closure to Jeff German’s family, friends, and colleagues. However, it also serves as a stark reminder of the price that some journalists pay for their commitment to uncovering the truth and holding the powerful accountable.