Former Clark County Official on Trial for Murdering Journalist

The trial of Robert Telles, the former Clark County public administrator, commenced in Las Vegas, where he faces charges of murdering investigative journalist Jeff German in September 2022. German, 69, was found stabbed to death outside his home, with evidence suggesting he had been ambushed. Telles, 47, has pleaded not guilty, claiming he was framed and that police mishandled the investigation. Prosecutors allege that Telles was motivated by German's critical reporting on his office, which had been marred by allegations of misconduct. During opening statements, prosecutors presented video footage of a person in bright clothing near German's home on the day of the murder, asserting that Telles was lying in wait. They also highlighted DNA evidence found under German's fingernails that matched Telles, as well as items discovered in Telles's home that linked him to the crime. The prosecution emphasized that German was preparing to publish another critical article about Telles at the time of his death. Defense attorney Robert Draskovich countered that Telles was a devoted public servant who had been wrongfully accused. He argued that the evidence against Telles was not as compelling as prosecutors claimed, pointing out the absence of German's blood on Telles's belongings. Draskovich indicated that Telles would testify in his defense, asserting that the case was tainted by a conspiracy against him. The trial has drawn significant attention, reflecting broader concerns about the safety of journalists. German was the only journalist killed in the U.S. in 2022, and his death has sparked outrage within the media community. The trial continues, with the potential for Telles to face life in prison if convicted.