Florida Plastic Surgeon Faces Trial Over Alleged Murder of Attorney

An ongoing trial in Florida involves Dr. Tomasz Kosowski, a plastic surgeon accused of murdering attorney Steven Cozzi and disposing of his body. Kosowski, 47, is representing himself, facing a first-degree murder charge. The judge in Pinellas County is set to decide his fate as Kosowski waived his right to a jury.

Kosowski was arrested in March 2023 in connection with Cozzi’s disappearance and has remained jailed, claiming his innocence. The two men were previously involved in a legal dispute, with court records showing Kosowski developing animosity towards Cozzi over the course of a civil lawsuit that began in 2019.

Events Leading to Cozzi’s Disappearance

On the day Cozzi vanished, he and Kosowski were scheduled for a teleconference. Cozzi left his office items and went to the restroom, but failed to attend the meeting. Bloodstains were later discovered in the restroom. Security footage revealed an individual arriving in a silver Toyota Tundra and leaving with a cart that appeared heavy, prompting suspicions.

Evidence shows the Tundra traveled to Kosowski’s home, where blood was found in the vehicle. Cozzi’s DNA was detected in the truck and on Kosowski’s garage floor.

Contents Found in Kosowski’s Possession

During the investigation, authorities found significant evidence in Kosowski’s vehicles. This included a ballistic vest with blood, a mobile phone known as a ‘burner phone,’ $282,000 in cash, and a black duffel bag labeled as a ‘murder bag.’ Items inside ranged from Taser and crowbar to ski masks and syringes.

Furthermore, they discovered an injectable drug, connecting items found to Kosowski’s medical practice.

Footage and Surveillance Data

After Kosowski’s arrest, footage from inside a patrol car showed him attempting to destroy potential evidence by manipulating his fingers with his mouth. Prosecution believes Kosowski planned the murder long before the event, evidenced by visits to Cozzi’s office and home, along with suspect online searches.

Prosecutors allege that after the act, Kosowski disposed of Cozzi’s body in a dumpster in a remote area. Subsequent to his arrest, authorities searched a landfill for Cozzi’s remains, aided by clues and surveillance data. The investigation is ongoing, with more than 6,000 tons of garbage complicating recovery efforts.

Trial Proceedings

Thus far in the trial, Kosowski has maintained a passive demeanor, taking notes and posing short replies. As proceedings advanced, he has begun questioning prosecution witnesses and contesting evidence, including DNA reports.

With the trial set to continue, the court is yet to deliver a verdict on the charges against him.