Nick Reiner has entered a not guilty plea in connection with the stabbing deaths of his parents, Rob Reiner, 78, and Michele Reiner, 68, who were found dead inside their Brentwood home on December 14, as reported by TMZ.

Reiner, 32, appeared in court and smirked at the audience as he walked into the courtroom. He was arrested on December 15 and charged the following day with first-degree murder.

Prosecutors also filed a special circumstances allegation, which allows for the possibility of the death penalty if they choose to pursue capital punishment.

More recent pic of Nick Reiner, now in custody and accused in the murder of his parents. pic.twitter.com/ulZhw5xCIt

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Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman addressed reporters after the arraignment, stating that the case is moving forward and that authorities are awaiting the coroner’s report.

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Rob and Michele Reiner were discovered stabbed to death in their home on Sunday, December 14, according to authorities.

Nick Reiner was initially represented by attorney Alan Jackson. However, Jackson withdrew from the case during Reiner’s January 7 arraignment, resulting in a delay in proceedings.

Jackson stated that the circumstances that led to his withdrawal were beyond Reiner’s control. He later held a press conference and declared, “Nick Reiner is NOT guilty of murder.”

Following Jackson’s departure, Kimberly Green, a deputy public defender with 19 years of experience, assumed representation of Reiner.

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Green was approached by reporters as she entered the courtroom on Monday. When asked how Reiner was doing, she replied, “No comment.”

Nick Reiner’s mental health has been cited as a significant element in the case.

It has been reported that he was diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder and that his medications may have contributed to instability in the month before the killings.

Authorities have not released additional details about the events leading up to the deaths. The investigation remains ongoing.

The next scheduled court appearance is a preliminary hearing set for April 29. Additional time may be requested as the case proceeds.

The special circumstances allegation attached to the charges could have major implications for sentencing if prosecutors decide to seek the death penalty.

The case has drawn significant attention in Los Angeles County, where the Brentwood neighborhood is known as an affluent residential area.

🚨WEIRD — Nick Reiner, who allegedly murdered his parents Rob and Michelle, pleads NOT GUILTY. pic.twitter.com/IUZ4b1JEIr

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Officials have indicated they are continuing to review evidence as they await the final coroner’s findings.