UPDATE: In a shocking turn during a scheduled arraignment, the attorney for Nick Reiner, charged with the brutal murder of his parents, abruptly withdrew from the case. Defense attorney Alan Jackson declared outside the courtroom, “Take this to the bank. Pursuant to the law in California, Nick Reiner is not guilty of murder. Print that! Print that!”
The withdrawal occurred on February 1, just moments before Nick Reiner was set to enter a plea regarding the alleged stabbings of his parents, acclaimed filmmaker Rob Reiner and renowned photographer Michele Singer Reiner. The couple was found dead in their upscale Brentwood home on December 14, suffering from “multiple sharp force injuries,” according to the Los Angeles County medical examiner.
During the brief court session, the judge barred cameras from capturing Nick Reiner, who appeared shackled in a brown jumpsuit with a shaved head. The arraignment has now been postponed to February 23. Nick Reiner remains in custody without bail.
Jackson, known for high-profile cases, stated that his decision to step down was one of the most challenging he has faced, citing “circumstances beyond our control, but more importantly, circumstances beyond Nick’s control.” He expressed that he was “legally and ethically prohibited” from detailing the reasons for his withdrawal.
The L.A. County Public Defender’s Office will now take over representation, with Deputy Public Defender Kimberly Greene stepping in. Following the hearing, L.A. County District Attorney Nathan Hochman expressed confidence in a successful prosecution, stating he believes Nick Reiner will be found guilty of the serious charges against him.
If convicted, Nick Reiner faces a potential life sentence without the possibility of parole. The District Attorney’s office has indicated that it may also seek the death penalty, although no final decision has been announced.
As this case unfolds, it raises pressing questions about the legal proceedings ahead and the impact on the families involved. The next hearing is set for February 23, as the public and media closely monitor this developing story. Stay tuned for updates as more information becomes available.