"Renowned director Rob Reiner's son, Nick Reiner, pleaded not guilty to murder charges in LA County Superior Court. The alleged killings occurred at his pa
**Los Angeles: Son of Famous Director Charged with Parents' Murder**
- **Defendant Pleads Not Guilty**
Nick Reiner, 32, the son of renowned director Rob Reiner and Michele Singer Reiner, pleaded not guilty on Monday in Los Angeles County Superior Court to two counts of murder in the first degree. The alleged killings occurred at the couple's residence in Brentwood in December.
- **Courtroom Appearance**
Reiner appeared in court behind his attorney, Kimberly Greene, in a glass-enclosed custody area. He had a shaved head and wore brown jail clothes. During the arraignment, he spoke briefly to acknowledge waiving a speedy preliminary hearing.
- **Preliminary Hearing Details**
During a preliminary hearing, prosecutors present the main evidence supporting the charges, and a judge decides if it's sufficient for the case to proceed. Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Theresa McGonigle scheduled Reiner's next hearing for April 29 and ordered him to remain in custody without bail.
- **Potential Penalties**
If convicted, Reiner could face either the death penalty or a life sentence without the possibility of parole. Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman stated that prosecutors are currently determining whether to seek the death penalty.
- **Prosecution's Process**
Hochman explained that the process for deciding on the death penalty is rigorous and thorough, with all aggravating and mitigating circumstances being taken into account. He added that Reiner's attorney has been invited to present arguments for prosecutors to consider.
- **Evidence Presentation**
Most of the evidence has been provided to Reiner's attorney, and they are awaiting the coroner's report. Hochman stated that the case is progressing as expected.
- **Defense Attorney Change**
Reiner is now represented by Greene after his initial defense attorney, Alan Jackson, withdrew from the case unexpectedly at what was supposed to be Reiner's arraignment in January. Last year, Jackson successfully defended Karen Read against murder and manslaughter charges in a high-profile Massachusetts case.
- **Previous Defense Attorney's Explanation**
Outside the courthouse, Jackson explained that he had to step aside due to circumstances beyond his control and more importantly, circumstances beyond Nick Reiner's control. He refused to elaborate further, citing legal and ethical restrictions. However, he maintained that Reiner was not guilty of murder "pursuant to the law in California."
- **Victims' Identities and Causes of Death**
Rob Reiner, 78, and Michele Singer Reiner, 70, died from "multiple sharp force injuries," according to the LA County Medical Examiner. Nick Reiner is the third child of Rob Reiner. The couple's deaths sent shockwaves through Hollywood. Rob Reiner is best known for his work on the 1970s TV series "All in the Family" and directing films such as "This Is Spinal Tap," "The Princess Bride," and "When Harry Met Sally."
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