Nick Reiner, the youngest son of Rob and Michele Reiner, appeared in court this week to enter his plea in connection with the deaths of his parents. During the hearing, Nick pleaded not guilty to two counts of first-degree murder and agreed to waive his right to a speedy preliminary hearing.
Rob and Michele Reiner were killed late last year, allegedly at the hands of their youngest son. Nick allegedly stabbed his parents and slit their throats just hours after attending a party at Conan O'Brien's home, and was subsequently taken into custody.
The Alleged Crime
The deaths of Rob and Michele Reiner late last year sent shockwaves through their family and the wider entertainment industry. According to investigators, the alleged attack occurred in the early hours of the morning, shortly after the family had attended a party at the home of Conan O'Brien. Nick allegedly stabbed both parents and slit their throats before being taken into custody, where he has remained since while awaiting trial.
Multiple sources have suggested that Nick's longstanding struggles with drugs and alcohol may have contributed to the alleged killings. He reportedly attended rehabilitation facilities on multiple occasions throughout his life, and his addiction had placed a significant strain on his family relationships. The district attorney has previously indicated that, given the severity of the charges, the death penalty remains a consideration in the case.
Nick Reiner's Plea Deal
Confirmed updates on Nick's case had been scarce until this week. He appeared in court accompanied by a public defender, entering a not guilty plea to two counts of first-degree murder. The judge asked whether he wished to waive his right to a speedy preliminary hearing, to which he agreed.
During his first public appearance in weeks, Nick appeared to have gained weight and looked more rested than on his previous court appearance. He wore a brown jumpsuit, his head was shaved and his hands were in shackles. Court photographs show him appearing largely emotionless, though he reportedly appeared to smirk at one point while in the courtroom.
What Does Nick Reiner's Plea Mean?
A not guilty plea means Nick is exercising his right to a trial, during which the prosecution must prove his guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. Nick's decision to waive the speedy preliminary hearing affords his legal team additional time to prepare his defence and build his case.
Family in the Background
Nick's siblings, Jake and Romy Reiner, were not present during the hearing. Romy, 26, was spotted on a hike with her boyfriend earlier this week and has since been photographed walking her dog and running errands in Malibu. Jake has been seen less frequently in public since his parents' deaths, though he has returned to his baseball coaching duties. A source close to the family has indicated that both siblings continue to support Nick.
Conan O'Brien's Words
Among those mourning Rob and Michele is Conan O'Brien, who recently broke his silence about the night he last saw the couple. O'Brien was reportedly the last person to see the Reiners before their deaths—they had attended a party at his home in the hours before the alleged attack. He said he was still in shock, having said goodnight to them just hours before learning of their deaths, and described Rob and Michele as 'lovely people.'
