News Summary
A 34-year-old Newport Beach man, Camden Nicholson, has pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity to the murders of his parents and their housekeeper. The incident, which took place in February 2019, has raised concerns over mental health assessments as Nicholson’s defense argues his severe mental health issues influenced his actions. Nicholson could face life in prison if found guilty. The community grapples with the impact of this tragedy on the family known for their local involvement.
Newport Beach
A Newport Beach man has pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity to the triple homicide of his parents and their housekeeper. Camden Nicholson, aged 34, faces three counts of special-circumstances murder following the incident, which occurred in their home on February 11, 2019. The victims include 61-year-old Kim Nicholson, 64-year-old Richard Nicholson, and 57-year-old Maria Morse.
The opening statements of the trial were made on October 6, 2025, in a courtroom in Santa Ana. If convicted, Nicholson could be sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole. The prosecution argues that Nicholson methodically carried out the murders using knives and blunt objects, indicating premeditation in his actions.
Nicholson has a documented history of mental health issues, including depression, paranoia, and psychosis. He had been under a multi-day mental health hold before being released on February 11, 2019, just two days before the bodies were discovered. Hospital staff had expressed concerns about his stability prior to his release, which was against medical advice.
Details of the Incident
According to the Senior Deputy District Attorney David Porter, Nicholson first attacked his parents, stabbing them, and then killed the housekeeper the following day. After the killings, he conducted various errands, including purchasing marijuana, sex toys, and food, before ultimately turning himself in to authorities on February 13, 2019. During his confession to the Newport Beach police, Nicholson made inflammatory statements about the murders.
Evidence recovered from the scene included bloody items, such as a barbecue fork, alongside clear signs of struggle in the home. The nature of the attack suggested a violent confrontation, corroborating the prosecution’s argument of calculated aggression.
Background and Family Concerns
Leading up to the incident, Nicholson exhibited concerning behaviors, including sending vulgar text messages and significant violent outbursts. His family had been increasingly alarmed by his behavior, which ultimately led them to seek mental health support for him and to cut off financial assistance. The Nicholson family was known for their active involvement in their local Mormon temple, being regarded as respected members of the community.
Legal Proceedings and Potential Outcomes
In his defense, Attorney Richard Cheung claimed that Nicholson’s severe mental health conditions were significant factors contributing to the tragic events. He argued that Nicholson was delusional and believed his parents were trying to label him as insane. If the jurors determine Nicholson is found guilty but insane, he may be committed to a mental health facility rather than serving time in prison. Conversely, if he is found guilty and sane at the time of the murders, he faces a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.
The intricacies of this case raise critical questions regarding mental health assessments and the legal system’s handling of individuals with severe psychological issues. Community members continue to grapple with the aftermath of the incident, reflecting on the tragic loss and the Nicholson family’s esteemed position within Newport Beach.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
California Transforms Motel into Supportive Housing for Homeless
Man Sentenced for Second-Degree Murder in Costa Mesa Tragedy
Costa Mesa Police Arrest Suspected Gang Member in Stabbing
Costa Mesa Man Convicted of Assault in Nightclub Stabbing
Fountain Valley Fire Chief Bill McQuaid Dies Unexpectedly
Homicide Investigation Underway in Santa Ana Riverbed Shooting
Orange County Implements Measures to Combat Homelessness
Costa Mesa: 19-Year-Old Arrested for Suspected Murder of Young Woman
Huntington Beach Votes on Controversial Library Measures
19-Year-Old Arrested for Murder in Costa Mesa Shooting
Additional Resources
- Orange County Register
- Los Angeles Times
- ABC7 News
- NBC Los Angeles
- Wikipedia: Mental Health
- Google Search: Camden Nicholson Murder Trial
- Google Scholar: Camden Nicholson Murder Trial
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Mental Health
- Google News: Camden Nicholson Murder Trial
Author: STAFF HERE COSTA MESA WRITER
COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER The COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECostaMesa.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Costa Mesa, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the OC Fair, Concerts in the Park, and Fish Fry. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Costa Mesa Chamber of Commerce and Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Orange Coast, plus leading businesses in retail, fashion, and technology that power the local economy such as Vans, Experian, and South Coast Plaza. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, HERESanDiego.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
