Former Democratic politician Robert Telles was convicted last week in the murder of Las Vegas Review-Journal reporter Jeff German. Telles, who testified that he was framed in a broad conspiracy, managed to convince the jurors that he was innocent, according to the jury foreman. The conviction comes after prosecutors argued that Telles stabbed German to death on September 2, 2022, allegedly out of anger towards the journalist's critical reporting on him.

Telles, 47, has been sentenced to life in prison with the possibility of parole after 20 years. However, Telles maintained throughout the trial that he was a victim of a setup orchestrated by law enforcement and his political rivals. He claimed that they wanted to see him behind bars for the murder of the 69-year-old journalist.

Gregory Whitney, the jury foreman, revealed in an interview with 8 News Now that initially, he was convinced of Telles' guilt. However, as the jurors deliberated for three days, reviewing testimonies from 30 witnesses and examining 400 pieces of evidence including photos, videos, and police reports, they struggled to find the crucial piece of evidence that Telles claimed would prove his innocence.

Whitney also stated that some jurors initially had doubts about Telles' involvement due to the numerous mistakes in the case. One juror, in particular, hesitated because they found it difficult to believe that someone could make so many errors. The jury, however, ultimately concluded that enough evidence pointed to Telles as the perpetrator of the crime.

Telles, testifying on August 22, steadfastly maintained his innocence, declaring unequivocally, "I didn't kill Mr. German." He argued that the nature of German's murder suggested a level of expertise beyond what an untrained individual could possess. Telles claimed that he was framed by Compass Realty, emphasizing the work he had done against them.

During his testimony, Telles' family appeared puzzled while the jurors diligently took notes. At times, exhibits were not readily available for Telles to present to the jury, despite his pleas for them to be shown. Telles' attorney, Robert Draskovich, had advised against him taking the stand, fearing he would face tough questioning from prosecutors.

Draskovich, who described the case as unique and difficult, stated that Telles plans to appeal his conviction. Telles will also face additional sentencing for using a deadly weapon and for targeting a victim over the age of 60.

As Telles begins his life sentence, the case continues to raise questions about the validity of his claims of conspiracy and adds to the tragic story of a journalist whose critical reporting may have cost him his life.