In a chilling example of political violence that strikes at the heart of our free press, former Democratic official Robert Telles of Las Vegas was sentenced to 28 years in Nevada state prison for the brutal stabbing murder of investigative journalist Jeff German. Despite overwhelming evidence—including Telles’ DNA found beneath German’s fingernails—Telles continues to deny responsibility, showing no remorse for his deadly actions.
The case shook the Las Vegas community and raised alarm bells nationwide. On October 16, 2024, Telles was charged with first-degree murder after German, a reporter for the Las Vegas Review-Journal, was found fatally stabbed. German had spent months exposing Telles’ questionable behavior, including a scandalous relationship with a female coworker, and critical stories that reportedly cost Telles a primary election for a second term as county office administrator.
Las Vegas District Attorney Steve Wolfson didn’t mince words after the sentencing. The presiding judge handed down the maximum sentence available, citing enhancements due to the victim’s age and the use of a deadly weapon. “The judge couldn’t sentence him to any more time,” Wolfson said bluntly. He added that Telles “showed absolutely no remorse, no acceptance of responsibility,” painting a grim picture of a man who remains a danger to society.
During the trial, Telles insisted, “I understand the desire to seek justice and hold somebody accountable for this, but I did not kill Mr. German.” Yet the mountain of evidence told a very different story. Prosecutor Pamela Weckerly highlighted a clear motive: “Telles felt that Mr. German had cost him an elected position.” She condemned the act as “political violence,” warning that such brutality threatens the foundation of a free society.
The jury was unimpressed with Telles’ protestations of innocence. Weckerly reported that the jury “squarely and soundly rejected all of that,” delivering justice not only for German but also sending a powerful message against violence targeted at journalists doing their jobs.
Telles’ defense attorney, Robert Draskovich, called the sentence “not surprising” and confirmed that his client plans to appeal. But the overwhelming public consensus is that justice was served. This case stands as a grim reminder that political office does not grant immunity from the law—nor does it justify silencing dissent by violence.
Journalist safety advocates praised the outcome. Katherine Jacobsen from the Committee to Protect Journalists called the sentencing “a significant milestone in the quest for justice,” adding that while nothing can undo the tragedy of German’s murder, holding Telles accountable serves as an important deterrent to those who might contemplate similar acts.
This tragic saga underscores the real dangers journalists face when holding public officials accountable—a cornerstone of a functioning democracy. Jeff German’s dogged reporting on corruption and workplace misconduct cost his life, but his legacy now stands as a testament to courage in the face of intimidation.
For conservatives who have long warned about the corrosive effects of unchecked political power and radical partisanship, the Telles case highlights why protecting free speech and the rule of law must remain a top priority. Political violence must be condemned wherever it rears its ugly head—and the perpetrators must be brought to justice swiftly and fully.
Las Vegas has seen a dark chapter, but justice has been done. Now, the nation must remain vigilant to ensure that journalists who speak truth to power are never left vulnerable again.
