Robert Telles has been sentenced to at least 28 years in prison for the killing of journalist Jeff German in Las Vegas.

German's critical reporting on Robert Telles' alleged workplace issues and misconduct led to the former politician's murder conviction and subsequent sentencing to nearly three decades behind bars, as Fox News reports.

The murder occurred over Labor Day weekend in 2022 outside German's home. German was a seasoned investigative journalist, with 44 years of experience in examining crime, corruption, and legal matters in Las Vegas.

At the time of his death, Telles was serving as the elected administrator of a Clark County office responsible for managing unclaimed estate and probate property cases.

German's investigative articles in May and June of 2022 highlighted alleged turmoil within the Clark County Public Administrator/Guardian office.

This scrutiny from German's reports contributed to Telles losing his primary re-election bid. The allegations from employees against Telles detailed a hostile workplace environment, partly because of his alleged inappropriate relationship with a staff member.

Key Evidence Presented During the Trial

Prosecutors argued that the journalist's articles damaged Telles' professional life, reputation, and possibly his marriage, which served as the motive for murder.

Evidence shown during the trial included Telles’ DNA found beneath German's fingernails, pointing to a physical altercation between the two.

Despite the evidence, Telles testified in court, acknowledging an office romance but continuing to deny his involvement in German's murder. He claimed that he was the victim of a conspiracy orchestrated by unspecified parties, framing him for the crime.

Victim's Family and Subsequent Struggles

Jay, German’s brother, expressed the family's ongoing shock and grief over the loss of German. "We lost a brother, we lost an uncle, a friend, a leader," he said. He also shared concerns over the potential future release of Telles, citing family safety as a primary worry.

During sentencing, Telles extended his condolences to the German family, recognizing the journalist's community impact and the family's loss. However, he maintained his innocence in statements made to the court.

Telles Declares Plan for Appeal

Christopher Hamner, the prosecutor involved in the case, reinforced the argument that Telles took drastic steps to reverse the damages caused by German’s reports.

"It’s like connecting the dots," Hamner said, linking the ongoing impact of the investigative articles to Telles' motivation for the murder.

As the trial concluded, Telles' attorney, Robert Draskovich, revealed plans to appeal the conviction. Telles' assertion that he was framed suggests future legal battles over the verdict may still unfold.

In addition to the primary term of incarceration imposed, sentencing enhancements imposed by the judge extended the length of time Telles will spend in prison.

Telles received an additional eight years, raising the sentence to an effective 28 years before parole eligibility.

Several years after German’s death, the impact on the community remains evident. Telles’ conviction marks a significant chapter in the case, but Jay and other family members continue grappling with the aftermath.

Moving forward, Telles maintains his position of denial. "But I did not kill Mr. German," he stated in court. His quest to clear his name will mark the next phase of this ongoing legal saga.