Nick Reiner has pleaded NOT GUILTY to the murder of his parents, Rob and Michele Reiner, The Hollywood Reporter reports.
Reiner appeared in court on Monday, Feb. 23, at a downtown Los Angeles courthouse. Nick’s mental status at the time of the murders is expected to play a factor in his defense, but it’s unclear at this time if he will seek an insanity defense.
If he’s found guilty, Nick could face a death sentence or life in prison without the possibility of parole.
Rob and Michele were found stabbed to death in their Brentwood home on Sunday, December 14, with Nick being arrested and charged with first-degree murder the following day.
Nick Reiner’s Attorney Withdrew From Case Before Last Arraignment Date
Nick’s first attorney, Alan Jackson, withdrew from the case in January, but has been clear that he believes the son of the beloved director is not guilty.
During an appearance on the “Hot Mics with Billy Bush” podcast on Monday, Jan. 12, Jackson said he’s “not willing to disclose” why he stepped away from the case.
You can’t say that something happened with the retainer because I’ve never said that,” the attorney said. “Obviously, something happened with my ability and my team’s ability to continue the representation, but I don’t want you, your audience, or anybody else to start speculating as to what that might be. I have not said a word about it.”
Along with this, Jackson made a telling statement outside the courthouse after he resigned.
“We’ve investigated this matter top to bottom, back to front,” Jackson also said in January. “What we’ve learned – and you can take this to the bank – is that pursuant to the laws of this state, pursuant to the law in California, Nick Reiner is not guilty of murder — print that.
REPORT: Nick Reiner’s Siblings ‘Do Not Want Nick To Get The Death Penalty’
GettyIn January, a family friend spoke to the U.S. Sun, revealing that Nick’s siblings, Romy and Jake, don’t want their brother to face the death penalty as it “won’t bring back Rob and Michele.”
“Rob and Michele’s family, despite everything, do not want Nick to get the death penalty, as they insist this horrific incident was the byproduct of a mental health crisis,” the family friend told the outlet.
“The last thing the Reiners want is another killing in the face of this unbelievable tragedy, and that the death penalty would only bring more pain,” the source added.
The family friend went on to explain that if Nick were to plead not guilty by reason of insanity, Romy and Jake would support the decision.
They both are correct. It will not bring their parents back. the death penalty would only in flick more pain on the family. It is so sad that those two beautiful people had to die in such a way. But we do not know what type of death will be dealt to us. GOD already knew GOD is in control. My sincerest simpathy goes out to the family.
I show no pity for this man, he did the crime and needs to pay the price. I vote for death penalty