Former Las Vegas Official Convicted in Journalist’s Murder

In a case that has raised serious concerns about press freedom, Robert Telles, a former county official, was found guilty on Wednesday of murdering longtime Las Vegas journalist Jeff German. The highly unusual killing highlights the risks faced by local journalists and the alarming trend of violence against those who seek to hold public officials accountable.

Details of the Case

Jeff German was brutally stabbed to death outside his home in September 2022. His reporting for The Las Vegas Review-Journal had drawn attention to Telles’s alleged toxic work environment and improper relationships within his office. Following the publication of German’s article, Telles lost his re-election bid, and prosecutors believe this motivated him to commit the crime.

Conviction and Evidence

The Clark County jury deliberated and ultimately convicted Telles of first-degree murder. Key evidence included DNA found on German’s hands that matched Telles’s, along with security footage showing an individual resembling Telles near the crime scene. Prosecutors argued that Telles had stalked German before the murder, hiding in bushes until the journalist returned home.

Defense Claims

Telles’s defense attorney, Robert Draskovich, claimed that his client was framed and suggested that the investigation was flawed. He argued that Telles had been targeted by an “old guard” of county officials who were unhappy with his reforms. Telles himself took the stand, asserting his innocence and alleging a conspiracy involving local businesspeople.

Impact on Press Freedom

The murder of Jeff German has sent shockwaves through the journalism community, raising fears about the safety of reporters in the United States. Katherine Jacobsen from the Committee to Protect Journalists emphasized the particular risks faced by local journalists, who often cover contentious issues while living in the communities they report on.

A Legacy of Accountability

German, who had moved to Las Vegas to cover organized crime, spent over four decades scrutinizing mobsters, politicians, and casino executives. His commitment to investigative journalism left a significant impact on the community. In the wake of his death, colleagues and friends have vowed to continue his work, ensuring that the stories he pursued do not go untold.