Former Las Vegas politician Robert Telles, who is on trial for the murder of investigative reporter Jeff German, took the stand for an hour on Thursday to defend himself. Telles adamantly claimed he did not kill German, stating he is not the type of person to commit such a violent act. He told the jury that on the day German was killed, he was out for a walk and at a gym, denying any involvement in the crime. Telles faces a potential life sentence if convicted of murder with a deadly weapon.
Prosecutors allege that Telles targeted German because the reporter had written critical articles about a county office under Telles’ management, which included allegations of misconduct. Telles asserted that he was framed by a political and social network for trying to combat corruption in his office.
The defense rested its case without calling any additional witnesses after Telles’ testimony. The prosecution previously presented evidence including witness testimonies, photos, and phone records linking Telles to the crime scene. Telles, a former attorney with a suspended license, has been in custody since his arrest shortly after German’s death.
German, a veteran journalist, was well-known for his reporting on crime and corruption in Las Vegas. His family members and friends have been present at the trial but declined to speak with the media. Evidence presented during the trial indicated Telles’ DNA was found under German’s fingernails, and there were familial ties between Telles and a vehicle spotted near the scene of the crime.
Despite the prosecution’s evidence, Telles maintained his innocence on the witness stand, denying any involvement in German’s murder. The trial continues with closing arguments and deliberations expected in the coming days.
