Nick Reiner, 32, has been formally indicted by a grand jury for the stabbing deaths of his parents, acclaimed Hollywood director Rob Reiner, 78, and his mother, Michele Reiner, 70. The indictment, which was released by officials on Wednesday, Aug. 12, includes two counts of murder along with special circumstance allegations of multiple murders and murder by means of lying in wait.
In addition to these charges, Reiner faces an allegation that he personally utilized a dangerous and deadly weapon, specifically a knife, during the incident. Following the announcement of the indictment, Reiner entered a plea of not guilty to both murder charges.
Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman addressed the case in a public statement, describing the event as a "profound betrayal by someone who was loved and trusted by the very people he is accused of killing." Hochman added that the grand jury's indictment serves to move the proceedings closer to a trial and the pursuit of justice.
The couple was discovered dead in their Brentwood, California home on the evening of Dec. 14, at which time Nick Reiner was arrested. Preliminary findings from the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner indicated that both parents died from "multiple sharp force injuries." Official death certificates recorded the time of death for Rob Reiner as 3:45 p.m. and for Michele Reiner as 3:46 p.m. local time on Dec. 14.
Legal proceedings regarding the case have included complications regarding Reiner's representation and finances. In June, Reiner filed a petition requesting access to his trust fund, claiming he had been denied money he was entitled to receive upon turning 30. He stated in the filing that he lacks the funds to pay for legal counsel or "basic necessities while incarcerated." This request followed the withdrawal of his high-profile criminal defense attorney, Alan Jackson, who cited "circumstances beyond his control." Jackson noted in a declaration that his firm would be prepared to resume representation if the funds became available. A court date for the trust fund matter is scheduled for later this month, while the murder case is slated for further proceedings in September.
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