Nick Reiner Removed from Suicide Watch Ahead of Arraignment, According to Reports
Nick Reiner Diagnosed with Schizophrenia, Faces Murder Charges
Los Angeles – Nick Reiner, accused of murdering his parents, Rob and Michele Reiner, has reportedly been diagnosed with schizophrenia. Reports indicate that his new medication has raised concerns about his behavior, prompting allegations that it has made him "dangerous."
Ahead of his scheduled arraignment on Wednesday, Reiner was removed from suicide watch, according to initial reports by People magazine. He remains in custody at the Twin Towers Correctional Facility in downtown Los Angeles, where he is held in solitary confinement and no longer wearing the anti-suicide smock seen during his first court appearance following the tragic events on December 17.
Courtroom coverage by FOX 11’s Christina Gonzalez noted that Reiner appeared "disheveled" and spoke softly during his hearing. Sketches from artist Mona Shafer Edwards provided additional context to the proceedings.
On December 16, the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office charged the 32-year-old with two counts of first-degree murder, adding special allegations of multiple murders and the use of a dangerous weapon—a knife. These factors could increase the severity of his sentencing. District Attorney Nathan Hochman has not yet determined whether to pursue the death penalty in this case, which prosecutors describe as "one of the most difficult" when dealing with familial victims and a suspect.
Prior to his parents’ deaths, reports from TMZ stated that Reiner had been diagnosed with schizophrenia.
Nick Reiner is expected to appear in court again on January 7 for his arraignment, which had originally been postponed as his defense requested more time to prepare. During the previous hearing, he also declined the right to a speedy trial.
