Robert Telles, a former Las Vegas-area Democratic elected official, took the stand in his own defense on Wednesday, declaring his innocence in the murder of investigative reporter Jeff German.
According to the New York Post, Telles testified that he "didn't kill Mr. German" and promised to tell the jury his side of the story. The trial, which has garnered significant attention, centers around the brutal stabbing death of German, who had written critical articles about Telles and his workplace conduct.
In an unusual move, Telles was permitted to testify "by way of narration" rather than the standard question-and-answer format. This decision came despite his attorney's strong advice against taking the stand, given the risk of cross-examination by prosecutors. The prosecution had already presented a substantial case over four days, including testimony from 28 witnesses and hundreds of pages of evidence.
Telles, who served as the county's administrator of unclaimed estates before losing his job, could face life in prison if found guilty. His law license was suspended following his arrest several days after German's death on September 2, 2022. The 47-year-old defendant appeared nervous as he addressed the jury, stating that he had been waiting for this opportunity to share his perspective.
The prosecution alleges that Telles killed German in retaliation for articles the reporter had written about turmoil in Telles' county office. These articles included allegations of an inappropriate relationship between Telles and a female coworker. The evidence presented by the prosecution includes DNA found under German's fingernails matching Telles, as well as surveillance footage and other physical evidence linking him to the crime scene.
During his testimony, Telles attempted to present his own interpretation of the evidence, leading to admonishments from Judge Michelle Leavitt. The judge reminded Telles to limit his testimony to facts and observations, as defense attorneys are only permitted to present opinions during closing arguments.
The prosecution's case against Telles appears to be substantial. Evidence presented includes hundreds of photos of German's home and identity records found on Telles' electronic devices, with timestamps indicating they were collected just weeks before the killing. Additionally, police discovered cut-up pieces of clothing at Telles' residence that matched items worn by a person captured on security footage near German's home on the day of the murder.
Telles' defense strategy seems to rely on his claim of innocence and his assertion that he has been framed. He has previously stated that he was victimized by a political and social "old guard" real estate network for attempting to fight corruption in his office. However, Telles has not provided a clear alibi for his whereabouts on the day of German's death.
The defendant's decision to testify in his own defense is a risky move, as it opens him up to cross-examination by experienced prosecutors. Legal experts often advise against defendants taking the stand, particularly when the prosecution has presented a strong case.
As the trial progresses, both the prosecution and defense are presenting their final arguments and evidence. The outcome of this case could have significant implications for press freedom and the safety of investigative journalists. German, who had spent 44 years covering Las Vegas mobsters and public officials, was known for his hard-hitting reporting.
The courtroom has been packed with media and spectators throughout the trial, including several members of Jeff German's family. The victim's colleagues and supporters have emphasized the importance of justice in this case, not only for German but for the principle of journalistic integrity and safety.
Telles is expected to continue his testimony on Thursday, followed by what is likely to be a rigorous cross-examination by the prosecution. The defense has indicated that Telles may be their final witness, setting the stage for closing arguments and jury deliberations in the near future.
In conclusion, the trial of Robert Telles for the murder of Jeff German has entered a crucial phase with the defendant's testimony. Telles vehemently denies any involvement in the killing despite substantial evidence presented by the prosecution. The case has drawn attention to the risks faced by investigative journalists and the potential consequences of their work. As the trial nears its end, all eyes are on the courtroom to see how the jury will weigh the evidence and testimony presented by both sides.
