Nick Reiner has pleaded not guilty to a newly unsealed murder indictment accusing him of fatally stabbing his parents, filmmaker Rob Reiner and Michele Reiner, inside their Los Angeles home.
The 32-year-old appeared in court Wednesday after prosecutors revealed an indictment charging him with two counts of murder and special circumstances including multiple murders and lying in wait.
The latter allegation could expose Reiner to life in prison without parole or the death penalty if he is convicted. Prosecutors have not decided whether they will pursue a death sentence.
“This was a profound betrayal by someone who was loved and trusted by the very people he is accused of killing,” Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman said.
Rob and Michele were found stabbed to death in their Brentwood home on Dec. 14. Their daughter Romy discovered her father’s body in a bedroom before fleeing the house and alerting a friend, who called 911.
Nick was arrested approximately 12 hours later in Exposition Park. Authorities have not publicly disclosed a motive.
The indictment also alleges Nick personally used a knife during the killings.
Rob, celebrated for directing films including When Harry Met Sally… and Stand by Me, previously worked with Nick on the 2015 film Being Charlie.
Nick remains jailed without bail and is scheduled to return to court September 15.
