Suspect’s Murder Trial Week One Recap: What Happened so Far?
The first week of the murder trial for the man accused of killing Las Vegas Review-Journal investigative reporter Jeff German has been filled with gripping testimonies and compelling evidence. The trial of former Clark County Public Administrator Robert Telles, 47, began with jury selection and quickly delved into a series of testimonies from 24 witnesses, ranging from police officers to forensic scientists, real estate agents, and county employees.
Attorneys involved in the case anticipate that the trial will last approximately two weeks, with the latter half of the week primarily dedicated to witness testimonies. Telles stands accused of murdering German, 69, allegedly in retaliation for articles the journalist had written about Telles’ conduct as an elected official. These articles included accusations of Telles creating a toxic work environment and engaging in an “inappropriate” relationship with a staffer.
The prosecution claims that Telles ambushed German on September 2, 2022, outside the reporter’s home, donning an orange vest and a large straw hat that obstructed his face. As the trial progressed, evidence against Telles began to mount, including his DNA discovered beneath German’s fingernails and surveillance footage depicting a maroon Yukon Denali that prosecutors allege matches the SUV registered to Telles’ wife. Additionally, authorities found incriminating items inside Telles’ residence, such as cut-up pieces of a tennis shoe with blood, a straw hat, and a grey duffle bag that resembled those worn or carried by the assailant.
Throughout the first week of the trial, Telles has been a prominent figure in the courtroom, often seen sitting next to his legal team, visibly engaging with testimonies and evidence presented against him. His demeanor has been described as composed, with occasional moments of interaction with individuals involved in the case, such as Roberta Lee-Kennett, the employee with whom Telles was accused of having an inappropriate relationship.
Key Moments from the First Week
Former Employee Testifies
One of the pivotal testimonies during the first week of the trial came from Roberta Lee-Kennett, a former estate coordinator within the public administrator’s office. Lee-Kennett revealed text messages exchanged between her and Telles following German’s murder, where she expressed shock at the resemblance between Telles’ car and the one seen in surveillance footage related to the crime. She also disclosed a conversation with Telles on the day of the murder, informing him of impending public records requests that could expose their correspondence.
Surveillance Footage
Prosecutors aimed to establish Telles’ involvement through surveillance footage presented in court. Former Metropolitan Police Department detective Cliff Mogg detailed how he traced a Yukon Denali leaving Telles’ neighborhood, traversing German’s area, and returning to Telles’ residence post the crime. The similarities between the assailant’s vehicle and Telles’ car were highlighted, bolstering the prosecution’s claim that Telles orchestrated German’s murder.
Opening Statements
The prosecution and defense laid out contrasting narratives in their opening statements. Chief Deputy District Attorney Pamela Weckerly emphasized DNA evidence and surveillance footage as the crux of their case, urging jurors to hold Telles accountable for his actions. Conversely, Telles’ attorney, Draskovich, painted his client as a whistleblower intent on exposing corruption within the public administrator’s office, distancing him from any motive for murder. The defense also scrutinized Metro detective Derek Jappe’s role in the investigation, alleging bias and interference in the case.
Jappe Testifies
Detective Jappe’s testimony shed light on Telles’ prior allegations of a housing kickback scheme, which he claimed involved a real estate company and the public administrator’s office. However, subsequent investigations found no evidence to support Telles’ claims, undermining his credibility in the eyes of law enforcement. Jappe’s account provided insight into the complexities of the case and the various angles pursued by investigators.
As the trial progresses into its second week, the stakes are high for both the prosecution and the defense. With Telles expected to take the stand in the coming days, the courtroom drama is far from over. The jury, composed of fourteen individuals, remains attentive and engaged, diligently taking notes and posing questions to witnesses.
The next phase of the trial promises to unveil more compelling evidence and testimonies, shedding further light on the circumstances surrounding German’s tragic death. As the legal battle intensifies, all eyes are on the courtroom as justice seeks to prevail in this high-profile murder case.
Contact Katelyn Newberg at knewberg@reviewjournal.com or 702-383-0240.
