Las Vegas, Nevada – Robert Telles, a former Nevada politician, was sentenced to life in prison after being found guilty of the murder of investigative journalist Jeff German. The verdict was reached on Wednesday, August 28, 2024, following a trial that captivated the Las Vegas community and beyond.
Telles, who served as the Clark County Public Administrator, was convicted of first-degree murder for the fatal stabbing of Jeff German in September 2022. Prosecutors argued that Telles acted out of retaliation, targeting German for his investigative reports that exposed misconduct and workplace harassment within Telles’ office. These reports, published in the Las Vegas Review-Journal, highlighted allegations against Telles, including claims of creating a toxic work environment and maintaining an inappropriate relationship with a staff member—claims that Telles denied.
On the day of the murder, Telles allegedly hid in the bushes outside German’s home, attacking him in a premeditated act of violence. The jury found his actions "willful, deliberate, and premeditated," leading to the life sentence handed down. While Telles’ legal team did not immediately respond to requests for comment, the outcome has brought a sense of closure to those following the case.
The news has sparked reactions on social media, where many expressed their thoughts on the conviction. Elizabeth Baker commented, “Party doesn’t matter. He has evil in his heart.” Nancy Naelitz added, “He flat out lied and got what he deserved.”
Meanwhile, Carmelle Simone voiced her disappointment over the sentencing options, stating, “Ecstatic about the verdict. Love Wolfson but was disappointed he took the death penalty off the table. Life with the possibility of parole after 20 years sucks.”
Jeff German’s commitment to investigative journalism and the pursuit of truth was widely recognized, and his untimely death has raised concerns about the safety of journalists. As the community remembers Jeff German, his legacy as a dedicated journalist endures.