What Is a Suicide Prevention Vest? Inside Nick Reiner’s First Court Appearance

When Nick Reiner appeared in court this week, one detail immediately stood out: the blue suicide prevention vest he was wearing.

The garment — often used in jails and hospitals when someone is believed to be at risk of self-harm — quickly sparked questions online as images from the courtroom circulated. Nick, 32, was appearing for the first time since being charged in the deaths of his parents, Rob Reiner and Michele Singer Reiner.

Nick appeared in Los Angeles Superior Court on Wednesday, December 17, wearing the vest along with shackles. Seated behind glass, he stared straight ahead as his attorney, Alan Jackson, declined to enter a plea on his behalf. When the judge asked whether Nick was willing to waive his right to a speedy arraignment, he replied, “Yes, your honor.” His arraignment has been scheduled for January 7, 2026.

What Is a Suicide Prevention Vest?

As attention turned to Nick’s courtroom appearance, many people wondered exactly what the vest signifies.