Nick Reiner Indicted in Murders of Parents Rob and Michele Reiner, Allegedly Lay in Wait

LOS ANGELES — A Los Angeles County grand jury has indicted Nick Reiner on charges involving the murders of his parents, actor and filmmaker Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele Singer Reiner, adding an allegation that he lay in wait before the killings.

The indictment was returned by the grand jury on July 20 and was unsealed Wednesday, the same day Nick Reiner entered a plea of not guilty.

Rob Reiner, a prominent Hollywood actor and director, and Michele Singer Reiner, a photographer and producer, were found fatally stabbed at their home in the affluent Brentwood neighborhood of Los Angeles on December 14. Nick Reiner was arrested hours later and formally charged two days afterward.

The grand jury indictment represents a significant development in the case because it allows prosecutors to move toward trial without going through California’s preliminary hearing process, where evidence is generally presented publicly.

Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman described the case as a profound betrayal and said the indictment brings prosecutors closer to trial and the pursuit of justice.

However, the document provides few additional details about what happened. Prosecutors have not publicly disclosed a motive, and much of the evidence surrounding the killings remains sealed.

The indictment alleges the use of a knife, classified as a dangerous weapon, which could result in additional sentencing consequences if Reiner is convicted. The filing does not explain precisely how the alleged attack unfolded or what investigators believe prompted it.

The Los Angeles County Chief Medical Examiner has also indicated that an autopsy report exists but has been restricted from public release by a court order.

Meanwhile, Nick Reiner is involved in a separate legal dispute concerning a trust established by his parents. According to court filings, he is seeking access to funds from the trust to help pay for his criminal defense.

The petition reportedly states that the trust contains at least $1.5 million in assets and alleges that trustees have declined to release money that Reiner claims was intended for him. His legal team is seeking access to the funds as he works to secure private representation.

Reiner previously had high-profile defense attorney Alan Jackson representing him during the early stages of the case. Jackson later stopped representing him after Reiner’s siblings reportedly ceased paying his legal fees, leading to the appointment of a public defender.

Nick Reiner has pleaded not guilty. The allegations contained in the indictment remain accusations, and prosecutors will have to prove their case beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.

With the indictment now unsealed, the case moves closer to a courtroom trial, although many key details—including the alleged motive and evidence surrounding the killings—remain unknown.

Source: U.S. News & World Report