5 Things to Know About an Anti-Suicide Smock, Which Nick Reiner Was Seen in After Parents’ Murder

Nick Reiner, who has been charged in the murder of his parents Rob Reiner and Michele Singer Reiner, made his first appearance in court on Wednesday, December 17, wearing an anti-suicide smock.

The 32-year-old was reportedly put under suicide watch after he was located and arrested on Sunday, December 14, at approximately 9:15 p.m. local time, according to the LAPD. He was found near the University of Southern California campus.

As previously reported, Nick has been charged with two counts of first-degree murder with a special circumstance of multiple murders and a special allegation that he used a knife. He has not yet entered a plea.

Here are five things to know about an anti-suicide smock and how it works.

An Anti-Suicide Smock Aims to ‘Prevent and Minimize the Risk of Suicide’

According to the Professional Security Products Corporation — which serves hospitals, prisons, security and other public safety professionals — products like an anti-suicide smock are “specifically designed to minimize the risk of suicide amongst higher risk individuals.”

Anti-Suicide Smocks Are ‘Impossible’ to Roll

If an individual is at high risk for suicide, PSP Corp. notes that they will likely find a way to do so. Anti-suicide products are “specifically designed to make tying nooses virtually impossible,” they say.

In the case of a smock, they are typically made of sturdy quilted nylon or similar material. “The thickness of the garment makes it impossible to roll or fold the material into a noose,” the description on their website reads.

They are collarless and sleeveless with adjustable openings at the shoulders. However, they provide warmth and do not interfere with mobility.

There Are Other Anti-Suicide Products

According to the PSP Corp. website, there are additional products that are used for people who are at high risk for suicide, including blankets, helmets, tear-resistant clothing and tear-resistant bed sheets.

The Cost of Anti-Suicide Products Vary

On the PSP Corp. website, a blue-colored gown (that looks similar to the one Nick Reiner wore in court on Wednesday, December 17) can cost $750. According to another retailer, ICS Jail Supplies, a smock can cost between $167.30 to $170.95.

Anti-Suicide Products Aren’t Foolproof

According to PSP Corp., “suicide cannot always be prevented 100% of the time.” However, they say, “these items provide an additional level of safety and, in many cases, make it nearly impossible for someone to use standard methods of [suicide] in a place of incarceration.”

If you or someone you know is struggling, if you have have suicidal thoughts, or just need to talk, call or text 988, or chat at 988lifeline.org 24/7.