Jury selection is set to begin for former Las Vegas-area politician Robert Telles, who is accused of killing investigative journalist Jeff German in 2022. German, a seasoned journalist with deep sources in Las Vegas, was found slashed and stabbed to death outside his home. Telles, who has pleaded not guilty, is believed to have been motivated by articles German wrote criticizing Telles and the county office he worked in. Telles, who is facing a potential life sentence, has been in jail since his arrest. The trial is expected to last less than two weeks.
German’s death has shocked the community as he was a respected journalist who covered various sensitive topics in Las Vegas. Telles was captured on surveillance video approaching German’s home on the day of the murder. Police also found DNA evidence believed to be from Telles under German’s fingernails, as well as pieces of clothing at Telles’ residence similar to those worn by the suspect on the video. Despite Telles’ attempts to have the case dismissed, the judge has denied these requests and the trial is moving forward.
Telles has raised concerns about the legality of his arrest and the handling of evidence in his case, including the deletion of body camera footage from his detention and the exclusion of his hospital blood tests. The trial was delayed due to a legal battle with the Review-Journal over the protection of confidential sources on German’s devices, which were eventually resolved. Telles also sought to prevent testimony about a hostile workplace and a discrimination lawsuit pending against him and the county. The trial is expected to involve more than 100 prospective jurors and will not seek the death penalty.
Despite the ongoing legal proceedings, Telles has expressed eagerness to share his side of the story in court. His defense attorney stated that Telles is looking forward to the trial and wants the opportunity to tell his version of events. The case has drawn significant attention due to the high-profile nature of the individuals involved and the chilling circumstances of German’s death. The trial is expected to last no more than two weeks, with jury selection beginning and testimony to follow.
Both Telles and German had significant reputations in the Las Vegas community, with Telles serving as a county administrator of estates and German being known for his investigative reporting on various issues. Telles, who lost his elected position after the arrest, has faced multiple legal challenges and proceedings in the lead-up to the trial. The prosecution feels confident in their evidence against Telles, including DNA and physical evidence linking him to the crime scene. The trial is anticipated to be closely watched by the media and public due to the gravity of the charges and the personalities involved.
As the trial proceedings get underway, the community is awaiting the outcome of this high-profile case that has captured national attention. The trial is expected to shed light on the events leading up to German’s tragic death and provide a clearer picture of the evidence against Telles. The legal battle over access to confidential sources and evidence has added complexity to the case, but the court has worked to ensure a fair trial for all parties involved. Telles’ defense attorney has emphasized his client’s desire to participate in the trial and tell his side of the story. The trial is poised to provide closure for both German’s family and the Las Vegas community following this shocking crime.
