Nick Reiner to Enter Plea in Parents’ Murder Case
LOS ANGELES (AP) — Nick Reiner, son of acclaimed director Rob Reiner and photographer Michele Singer Reiner, is scheduled to appear in a Los Angeles courtroom on Monday, potentially entering a plea in connection with the deaths of his parents. This appearance follows two previous hearings marked by legal maneuvering and limited substantive progress.
Reiner, 32, will be represented by his new attorney, Kimberly Greene, a public defender. He has been held without bail since his arrest in December, shortly after his parents were found dead at their Brentwood home with fatal stab wounds.
Previous Counsel’s Departure and Claims of Innocence
The case took an unexpected turn when Reiner’s previous attorney, Alan Jackson, a high-profile private lawyer, withdrew from the representation in January. Jackson cited “circumstances beyond his and his client’s control” and ethical constraints preventing him from disclosing the reason for his departure. However, he emphatically stated outside the courthouse that, “pursuant to the laws of California, Nick Reiner is not guilty of murder.” Jackson’s team had conducted an intensive investigation prior to handing off the case, leading him to this conclusion, and he expressed concern over inaccurate reporting surrounding the tragedy.
The source of funding for Jackson’s representation remains unclear. Typically, defendants utilize public defenders when unable to afford private counsel.
Expected Plea and Ongoing Investigation
Reiner is widely expected to plead not guilty, a standard practice for defendants at this stage of criminal proceedings. He was observed wearing a suicide prevention smock during his initial court appearance in December but did not wear it at the subsequent January hearing.
The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s initial findings indicate that Rob Reiner, 78, and Michele Singer Reiner, 70, died from “multiple sharp force injuries.” Authorities believe the deaths occurred hours before the bodies were discovered. Further details remain sealed under a court order. Investigators have yet to publicly disclose a potential motive for the crime.
Potential Penalties and Rob Reiner’s Legacy
Prosecutors have not yet announced whether they will seek the death penalty against Nick Reiner, a punishment for which he is eligible given the charges.
Rob Reiner’s career spanned decades, delivering iconic films that continue to resonate with audiences. He directed beloved classics such as “This is Spinal Tap,” “Stand By Me,” “A Few Good Men,” and “When Harry Met Sally…,” where he met his wife, Michele Singer. Their marriage lasted 36 years.
This case continues to unfold, and further updates will be provided as they become available. You can find more information about the case from The Associated Press.
