From Newsweek · · 1m 40s
The Reiners opposed the death penalty. Their son won't face it
Prosecutors won't seek execution for Nick Reiner, a decision that matches what his murdered parents believed for years.
In brief
Prosecutors won't seek execution for Nick Reiner, a decision that matches what his murdered parents believed for years. Los Angeles prosecutors consulted the Reiner family and chose not to seek death for Nick Reiner, in line with his parents' long opposition to capital punishment. Originally reported by Newsweek.
No death penalty for Nick Reiner
Los Angeles prosecutors won't seek execution for Nick Reiner, 33, who is charged with first-degree murder in his parents' deaths. If convicted, he faces life in prison without parole.
“This decision reflects our careful judgment about the most appropriate path to take in this case and does not diminish the severity of these crimes”
The family had a say
DA Hochman consulted the Reiner family. He also weighed the factors that made Nick eligible for death, including multiple killings and the use of a dangerous weapon in the fatal stabbings.
“Seeking capital punishment should be reserved for the most egregious instances”
Lifelong death penalty opponents
Rob, 78, and Michele, 70, were found dead at home on December 14. Less than 36 hours earlier they had watched Lyrics from Lockdown, a one-man show about race and mass incarceration.
A prisoner they called family
The couple wrote to Nanon Williams, now in his 34th year in a Texas prison for a murder he says he didn't commit, and offered him a home if he were ever freed.
“He became like family”
Defense points to mental illness
Nick has pleaded not guilty to two counts and is held without bail until an October 7 court date. His public defender praised the decision and said he has long struggled with his illness.
“Nick has a serious mental illness and a long history of struggling with self-medication”
Tears at the Emmys
Rob won a posthumous Emmy for his guest role on The Bear. Jamie Lee Curtis, his friend and costar, broke down while honoring the couple during the memorial segment.
“He was generous, kind and funny as hell, and a friend to all”
Here's the gist
Los Angeles prosecutors consulted the Reiner family and chose not to seek death for Nick Reiner, in line with his parents' long opposition to capital punishment.
