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Nick Reiner, son of renowned director Rob Reiner and Michele Singer Reiner, is facing two counts of first-degree murder for the stabbing deaths of his parents. Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman announced the charges on Tuesday (December 16). The couple was found dead in their Brentwood home on Sunday.
Nick Reiner, 32, was arrested hours after the discovery of the bodies. He did not appear in court on Tuesday as he had not been medically cleared for transfer from jail. His attorney, Alan Jackson, stated that this is standard procedure for new detainees.
The charges include a special allegation of using a knife. Nick Reiner is being held without bail and is on suicide watch at the Twin Towers Correctional Facility in Los Angeles.
Prior to the incident, Nick Reiner and his father reportedly argued at a party hosted by Conan O'Brien. Nick has previously spoken about his struggles with addiction and co-wrote the film Being Charlie, inspired by his life experiences.
District Attorney Hochman emphasized that the charges are not evidence and cautioned against rumors. He stated that the evidence will be presented in court to meet the standard of proof beyond a reasonable doubt.
The charges carry a maximum sentence of life in prison without parole or the death penalty, though no decision has been made regarding the latter.