Pinellas County, Fla. – Dr. Tomasz Kosowski, a 47‑year‑old plastic surgeon, is representing himself in a first‑degree murder trial that could carry the death penalty. The trial, held in the Pinellas County courtroom, centers on the 2023 disappearance of attorney Steven Cozzi.
Background of the dispute
Kosowski and Cozzi became adversaries during a civil lawsuit that began in 2019 over money Kosowski claimed was owed for personal‑injury work. Court records show Kosowski grew hostile, demanding Cozzi be removed as counsel and accusing him of unfounded misconduct.
Alleged crime scene details
On March 21, 2023, Cozzi was scheduled for a teleconference hearing. He left his desk for the office restroom and never returned. Security footage later captured a man in dark gloves entering the building with a large box, and another individual exiting with a wagon covered by a reddish‑orange blanket.
Investigators traced a silver Toyota Tundra, seen arriving at the office around 8:30 a.m., to Kosowski’s home in Tarpon Springs. A Flock camera captured a red bag in the truck’s bed that appeared to contain a human body. A search warrant of Kosowski’s garage uncovered the Tundra with blood on the driver’s side, his DNA and Cozzi’s DNA on the floor, and a ballistic vest soaked with blood.
Evidence found
Police also recovered a “murder bag” containing lighters, a Taser, scissors, brass knuckles, a crowbar, ski masks, a syringe, a needle and a vial of the paralytic drug succinylcholine, all labeled to Kosowski’s Miami plastic‑surgery office.
During the arrest, Kosowski was observed attempting to destroy evidence by sucking on his fingers, according to a prosecution witness.
Prosecution’s timeline
Prosecutors allege Kosowski visited Cozzi’s home and workplace weeks before the disappearance, photographing cars and the law‑firm building. They also claim Kosowski tracked Cozzi’s and his husband’s online activity, seeking personal information.
On the day of the disappearance, Kosowski’s cellphone was tracked to a dirt road near the Everglades, where a dumpster was located. He allegedly returned to the dumpster two days later, and a K‑9 unit later detected human remains, though no body was recovered.
Trial status
Kosowski has waived his right to a jury, leaving the judge to determine guilt and any sentence. He maintains his innocence, while the prosecution argues the evidence points to a pre‑meditated killing.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
