Former Clark County public administrator Robert Telles was sentenced to life in prison on Wednesday for the murder of investigative journalist Jeff German. The jury found Telles guilty of first-degree murder after a two-day deliberation. Telles, who was convicted of killing German in September 2022 over critical articles about his office, will be eligible for parole after at least 20 years. Prosecutors did not seek the death penalty, but Telles faced a potential life sentence without parole.
Telles, 47, was arrested four days after German’s death, which occurred outside the journalist’s home. Evidence presented in court included security footage showing a person in bright orange clothing and a straw hat, matching items found at Telles’ residence. The prosecution argued that Telles was motivated by revenge for German’s reporting on alleged misconduct and personal issues. Despite Telles’ claims of being framed, the jury concluded he was responsible for the brutal stabbing.
During the trial, Telles testified that he was framed by colleagues and denied any involvement in the murder. The court heard testimony and saw evidence linking Telles to the crime, including DNA found under German’s fingernails and a text from Telles’ wife that coincided with the time of the murder. District Attorney Steve Wolfson dismissed Telles’ claims of conspiracy, labeling them as “ludicrous,” and emphasizing the deliberate nature of the crime.
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