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Insanity Defense Seen as a Steep Hurdle for Nick Reiner as Siblings Make First Public Appearance

He remains held without bail on two first-degree murder charges with his next court date set for Jan. 7.

Overview

  • Legal analysts say a not‑guilty‑by‑reason‑of‑insanity plea is rarely successful in California and requires proof the defendant did not understand the nature or wrongfulness of the act.
  • Experts point to reports of a public dispute with his parents the night before and a hotel check‑in as indicators that could undercut a legal insanity claim.
  • Nick Reiner is jailed at Twin Towers Correctional Facility, reportedly under suicide watch, and has not entered a plea.
  • He is charged with two counts of first‑degree murder with a knife alleged, and official records list multiple sharp‑force injuries as the cause of death.
  • Romy and Jake Reiner were photographed together for the first time since the killings, and a source tells People they are relying on their long‑standing bond for support.