Los Angeles police made two previous visits to Rob and Michele Reiner’s home before their deaths, which may play a role in the legal battle concerning their son’s mental health.
Details of the police visits
On February 25, 2019, officers responded to a welfare check after a 911 call about the Reiner home. Police reported finding no issues. Another call on September 27, 2019, related to mental health concerns also yielded no signs of mental illness.
These visits were ordinary but have gained attention after the couple’s son, Nick Reiner, allegedly killed them in December 2025. He has a documented history of substance abuse and mental health issues, which are now central to his legal case.
Charges and potential defenses
Prosecutors charged 32-year-old Reiner with two counts of first-degree murder. The motivation for the killings remains unclear, and he has not yet entered a plea.
His attorney, Alan Jackson, is likely assessing Reiner’s mental health history for potential defenses, including a consideration for insanity. Legal experts believe that establishing a diminished mental state could influence the outcome and possible plea deals.
Implications of mental health findings
If Reiner can demonstrate he lacked the intent to kill due to his mental health and medication, he might face lesser charges, potentially reducing prison time.
A conviction for first-degree murder could lead to life imprisonment without parole, but an insanity finding would result in commitment to a mental health facility instead. Experts suggest that this case might be an exception where an insanity defense could succeed.
