A Florida judge on Wednesday found plastic surgeon Dr. Tomasz Kosowski guilty of murdering attorney Steven Cozzi, whose body has never been recovered. The verdict follows a non-jury trial presided over by Judge Joseph Bulone in Clearwater, Florida.
Kosowski waived his right to a jury trial and represented himself during the proceedings, which concluded with the judge determining he was responsible for Cozzi’s death. The case centered on Cozzi’s disappearance in March 2023, shortly after he represented defendants in lawsuits against Kosowski.
Prosecutors alleged Kosowski harbored a ‘malicious and personal obsession’ with Cozzi, whom he blamed for financial losses related to ongoing legal disputes. They described the killing as ‘cold, calculated, and premeditated’, with Kosowski allegedly planning the murder in advance. Key evidence included testimony about prior threats, stalking behavior, and a violent confrontation in a restroom, according to court filings.
The trial lasted six days, featuring testimony from dozens of witnesses who described Kosowski’s alleged fixation on Cozzi. Cozzi’s husband testified that he had grown alarmed by the interactions and suggested security measures for future meetings between the two men. Prosecutors also presented evidence of Kosowski’s ‘methodical and systematic’ approach to the crime, though the specifics of how Cozzi was killed were not disclosed in public records.
Following the guilty verdict, the penalty phase of the trial began immediately. Prosecutors sought the death penalty, arguing three aggravating factors: financial gain, premeditation, and the heinous nature of the crime. Judge Bulone ruled that prosecutors proved the first two factors beyond a reasonable doubt but did not find sufficient evidence for the third. Under Florida law, proving just one aggravating factor is enough to make a defendant eligible for the death penalty.
Kosowski, who has maintained his innocence, faces either life in prison without parole or the death penalty. The judge has not yet scheduled sentencing. During the penalty phase, Bulone reminded Kosowski of the ‘disadvantages’ of self-representation and offered him legal counsel, which Kosowski declined.
The case has drawn attention due to its unusual procedural elements, including Kosowski’s decision to waive a jury and his right to an attorney. Legal experts noted that self-representation in murder trials is rare and carries significant risks, particularly in complex cases involving forensic evidence and witness testimony. Kosowski’s legal strategy—including his cross-examination of witnesses and delivery of closing arguments—was closely observed by courtroom observers.
Cozzi’s disappearance in 2023 sparked a widespread search, but no physical evidence of his body has been recovered. Investigators relied on digital communications, witness accounts, and circumstantial evidence to build their case. The lack of a body has not prevented prosecutors from pursuing murder charges, as Florida law allows convictions based on other forms of evidence.
The trial also highlighted the emotional toll on Cozzi’s family, who have waited over three years for answers. Cozzi’s husband testified about the strain the disappearance placed on their relationship and the uncertainty that persisted until the verdict. Legal analysts noted that such cases often hinge on circumstantial evidence when direct proof of a crime is unavailable.
As the penalty phase continues, the court will weigh aggravating and mitigating factors before determining Kosowski’s sentence. The outcome could set a precedent for how Florida courts handle cases with limited physical evidence but strong circumstantial and testimonial support. The case remains under court seal regarding further procedural details.