At a Los Angeles court hearing on Monday, Nick Reiner pleaded not guilty to the murders of his parents, Hollywood director Rob Reiner and producer Michele Singer Reiner.
The 32-year-old entered a plea of not guilty to two counts of first-degree murder, with the special circumstance of multiple murders, as his public defender, Kimberly Greene, represented him.
If convicted, Reiner could face a maximum sentence of life without parole or the death penalty.
Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman stated that they are still considering whether to pursue the death penalty and await the coroner’s final report.
Hochman emphasized the thorough evaluation of all factors before deciding on seeking the death penalty, including aggravating and mitigating circumstances.
During the hearing, Nick Reiner sat behind glass as his attorney entered the not guilty plea on his behalf. He waived his right to a speedy preliminary hearing, with the next court date set for April 29.
According to reports, a not-guilty plea is common at this stage of the case for criminal defendants.
Previously scheduled to enter a plea last month, Reiner’s defense attorney withdrew from the case during the last court appearance related to the December stabbings.
Nick Reiner’s parents were tragically found stabbed to death in their Los Angeles home on December 14. The motive behind the killings remains unknown.
Currently held without bail, Nick Reiner, the third of Rob Reiner’s four children, has a history of substance use.
