Additional Coverage:
Las Vegas Ex-Official Sentenced for Killing Journalist
Robert Telles, a former Las Vegas-area Democrat, was sentenced to a minimum of 28 years in prison for murdering investigative reporter Jeff German. Telles killed German after articles critical of his conduct in office exposed an extramarital affair.
The judge added eight years to Telles’ 20-year sentence for using a deadly weapon and German’s age. Telles maintains his innocence but offered condolences to German’s family.
Evidence against Telles included DNA under German’s fingernails. German had reported on turmoil and bullying in Telles’ office, leading to Telles’ loss in the primary election.
Telles claimed he was framed but the jury rejected his claims. Prosecutors said Telles killed German for ruining his career and reputation.
German’s brother and sisters testified about their pain, while Telles’ wife, ex-wife, and mother pleaded for leniency. The jury recommended Telles be eligible for parole in 45 years.
Telles’ sentence sends a message that violence against journalists is unacceptable. German was the only journalist killed in the U.S. in 2022, highlighting the importance of protecting media workers.