Nick Reiner could potentially face the death penalty if found guilty of murdering his parents, Rob and Michele Singer Reiner. However, execution is not guaranteed.
The Incident and Charges
Nick is charged with the murder of his parents on December 14, 2025, shortly after a reported argument with his father, Rob, at Conan O’Brien’s holiday gathering. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner confirmed on December 17, 2025, that Rob and Michele, aged 78 and 70, died from “multiple sharp force injuries,” consistent with earlier LAPD reports of “apparent stab wounds.”
Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman announced on December 16, 2025, that Nick faces two counts of first-degree murder. Hochman noted that potential sentences include “life in prison without the possibility of parole or the death penalty.”
“These charges include two counts of first-degree murder with a special circumstance of multiple murders,” Hochman stated. “He also faces a special allegation of personally using a dangerous and deadly weapon, namely a knife.”
Impact of California’s Death Penalty Moratorium
Despite the possibility of a death penalty sentence, Nick Reiner would not face execution due to California’s moratorium on capital punishment.
In March 2019, California Governor Gavin Newsom signed an executive order halting all executions, citing the death penalty as “inconsistent with our core values.” This order granted a temporary reprieve to 737 death row inmates.
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Newsom expressed his belief that a civilized society cannot lead while sanctioning the “premeditated and discriminatory execution of its people.”
Though the moratorium prevents executions, it does not stop prosecutors from seeking the death penalty. Oakland criminal defense attorney Jo-Anna Nieves explained that while the death penalty remains legal, its enforcement is suspended unless future legislation or a new governor changes the status quo.
University of Southern California criminal law professor Aya Gruber suggested that the mention of the death penalty might serve as a leverage point for a plea deal, given Nick’s history of addiction and mental health issues.
Potential Changes to the Moratorium
The moratorium could be overturned by a future governor. Governor Newsom is nearing the end of his term, and California’s next gubernatorial election is set for 2026.
Californians might also have a chance to vote on a proposition regarding the death penalty in 2026.
History of Executions in California
California has not executed a prisoner since Clarence Ray Allen on January 17, 2006. Since the 1970s, only 13 executions have occurred. As of December 2025, 580 individuals are on death row in California.
Upcoming Court Appearance
Nick Reiner’s arraignment is scheduled for January 7, 2026. His attorney, Alan Jackson, stated that Nick was not “medically cleared” to attend a previous hearing. Nick appeared in court on December 17, 2025, on suicide watch.
Caroline BREHMAN / AFP
During the hearing, Nick waived his right to enter a plea. The arraignment will continue in January 2026, with Nick held at L.A.’s Twin Towers Correctional Facility without bail.
