LAS VEGAS — A jury is set to hear closing arguments in the high-profile trial of Robert Telles, a former Democratic politician accused of murdering investigative journalist Jeff German. Telles has maintained that the DNA evidence against him was manipulated or incorrect, asserting that he is the target of a vast conspiracy.
As the trial nears conclusion, the jury, comprising seven men and seven women, will determine whether they believe Telles is guilty of stabbing and killing German. Telles, who did not take the stand again, concluded his self-representation by asserting, “I didn’t kill Mr. German, and I’m innocent.”
The charges against Telles stem from allegations that he orchestrated the murder of the 69-year-old German, known for his decades of reporting on crime and corruption in Las Vegas. German had published articles criticizing Telles’s management of the county office, which included revelations about a romantic relationship Telles conducted with an employee—a claim Telles acknowledged in court.
Telles, 47, previously practiced civil law before entering politics in 2018. Following his arrest, he lost the Democratic primary election in 2022 and has voiced disdain for German and negative media coverage on social media.
Throughout the trial, jurors have closely observed Telles, who described his lengthy wait in jail to share his story. He has blamed colleagues and business associates for fabricating evidence against him, claiming it resulted from his efforts to expose corruption in his office. Telles attempted to distance himself from the idea that he could commit such a brutal act, stating, “I’m not the kind of person who could brutally murder another man.”
Key evidence presented during the trial included a text message from Telles’s wife asking for his location at the time of German’s death, which coincided with the estimated time of the murder. Despite speculation that the message may have been removed from Telles’ phone, forensic experts stated it was impossible to verify.
The proceedings have drawn significant attention, particularly because German was the only journalist killed in the U.S. in 2022, highlighting ongoing concerns about journalist safety. Surveillance footage captured a vehicle similar to Telles’s at the scene, raising further suspicions about his involvement.
Prosecutors also presented evidence linking Telles’s DNA to the crime scene, which he claims was planted. As jury deliberations approach, Telles reiterated his disbelief regarding the evidence put against him, painting himself as a victim of an overarching conspiracy.
Telles now faces a potential life sentence if convicted. His trial underscores critical issues of transparency and safety within journalism, resonating widely in today’s media landscape. The verdict will have significant implications both for Telles and for the broader conversation about the protection of journalists in the pursuit of truth.
