The children of renowned Hollywood director Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele Reiner, have reacted publicly for the first time following the murder of their parents and the arrest of their brother, Nick Reiner, who is accused of the crime.
Jake and Romy Reiner said Wednesday they are going through "unimaginable pain," calling the loss of their parents "horrific and devastating." In a statement to CBS News, they asked for privacy and respect, and for the public and media to show restraint and humanity in handling the incident, without directly commenting on the allegations against their brother.
Nick Reiner, 32, made his first court appearance Wednesday, where he pleaded not guilty to two counts of first-degree murder. Rob and Michele Reiner were found dead Sunday in their Los Angeles home. Nick Reiner was arrested that evening and formally charged a day later.
During the hearing, the prosecution and defense agreed that the next hearing, where he will plead guilty or not guilty, will be held on January 7. Until then, he will remain in custody at the Twin Towers Correctional Center in Los Angeles.
Nick Reiner's lawyer, Alan Jackson, said the case is complex and serious, requesting that the legal process be conducted without prejudice and without rushing to conclusions. According to lawyers, the postponement of the statement may be related to the need for a psychiatric evaluation to see if the accused is fit to face trial.
If convicted, Nick Reiner faces life in prison without the possibility of parole or even the death penalty, although the prosecution has not yet decided whether to seek that sentence.
Rob Reiner was one of Hollywood's most popular directors, author of famous films such as This Is Spinal Tap, Misery and A Few Good Men. Michele Reiner was an actress, photographer and producer, as well as the founder of the production company Reiner Light.
Los Angeles Police Chief Jim McDonnell called the incident "heartbreaking and deeply personal," stressing that it has affected not only the Reiner family, but the entire city.
