Robert Telles, a former Las Vegas official, faces arraignment in the brutal murder of journalist Jeff German. The case has raised concerns over First Amendment protections and the handling of journalistic materials during criminal investigations.
Las Vegas, Nevada - An arraignment hearing has commenced for Robert Telles, a former Clark County administrator of estates, accused of murdering investigative journalist Jeff German. Telles has remained incarcerated since his arrest in September 2022, days after German was found dead outside his home.
Las Vegas Official Robert Telles Charged in Murder of Journalist Jeff German
Marc Randazza, a Las Vegas attorney, shared his insights with Fox News Digital, noting that while he did not have a personal relationship with Telles, he had observed unusual behavior in the past. Randazza emphasized the importance of First Amendment considerations in the case, particularly regarding the handling of German's journalistic materials.
Prosecutors allege that articles German wrote about Telles and a county office in turmoil were a motive for the killing. German's journalistic notes and devices were obtained by the Las Vegas Metro Police Department, prompting a legal challenge by the Las Vegas Review-Journal, German's employer.
Las Vegas Official Robert Telles Charged in Murder of Journalist Jeff German
The Review-Journal argued for the protection of journalistic sources and materials under the First Amendment. The Nevada Supreme Court ultimately ruled that the privilege against disclosure extends beyond the reporter's lifetime. A compromise was reached, allowing the devices to be reviewed by a third party to screen confidential information.
Telles, who became a lawyer in 2015 and ran as a Democrat in 2018 for Clark County administrator of estates, lost his elected position and law license following his arrest. He has pleaded not guilty to open murder and faces a potential life sentence if convicted.
Las Vegas Official Robert Telles Charged in Murder of Journalist Jeff German
Randazza criticized Telles' decision to initially represent himself, stating that it was a "foolish" move. Telles has since retained counsel again. His defense attorney, Robert Draskovich, indicated that Telles is eager to present his case in court.
Prosecutors have presented strong evidence, including DNA allegedly found beneath German's fingernails and matching clothing items found at Telles' residence. However, Randazza questioned Telles' defense strategy, which he described as "a poor strategy."
Las Vegas Official Robert Telles Charged in Murder of Journalist Jeff German
Telles' defense has argued for the exclusion of evidence, claiming illegal detention, improper deletion of body camera footage, and the omission of medical records from the case. Clark County District Court Judge Michelle Leavitt has denied dismissal requests and rejected Telles' attempts to have her removed from the case.
Progress in the trial has been delayed due to legal disputes over the disclosure of German's journalistic materials. The Las Vegas Review-Journal sought to protect confidential sources under First Amendment and state law, while the police argued for the necessity of the search. The state Supreme Court intervened, granting the newspaper time to review the files first.
Las Vegas Official Robert Telles Charged in Murder of Journalist Jeff German
Fox News Digital and the Associated Press contributed to this report.
