Joseph Reiner murder trial starts

MACOMB TWP, Mich. (WXYZ) - Joseph Reiner, 28, kept a straight face in court for the first day of his trial.

Make-up covered horn tattoos on his forehead, making it appear as though he never had them at all. Reiner is accused of murdering 69-year-old Joann Eisenhardt inside her Macomb Township home in February of 2011.

Police say he kicked in Eisenhardt's door that morning and struggled with her. 

Before leaving Eisenhardt’s house, investigators believe Reiner stabbed her twice before stealing two of her rings.

Police think he later pawned them.

On Thursday morning, the court heard the tragic 911 call Eisenhardt made as she struggled to talk to a dispatcher.

Reiner has two horns tattooed on each side of his forehead.  The foundation make-up was thought to help give Reiner a more positive image.

There were reports stating makeup purchased by Reiner’s attorney was with taxpayer money.

Timothy Barkovic is Reiner’s lawyer.  He told 7 Action News that is not true.

“Nothing was done on taxpayers’ money,” said Barkovic.  “I paid for it out my own pocket and I’m glad to present my client in the most favorable light possible.”

Court resumes again Friday.