Florida Plastic Surgeon Tomasz Kosowski Represents Himself in Capital Murder Trial

Dr. Tomasz Roman Kosowski, a Florida plastic surgeon accused of killing attorney Steven Cozzi in 2023, is representing himself in a capital murder trial that could result in the death penalty.

The trial began on September 14, 2026, at the Pinellas County Justice Center in Clearwater. Prosecutors have charged Kosowski with first-degree murder in connection with Cozzi’s disappearance and alleged killing. Kosowski has pleaded not guilty and denies the charge.

Kosowski, who attended Dartmouth and holds both medical and business degrees, waived his right to court-appointed counsel and chose to conduct his own defense. Court records show that a competency hearing on September 14 found him competent to waive counsel.

He also waived his right to have a jury determine his guilt or innocence. As a result, the case is being decided in a bench trial, with Judge Joseph Bulone presiding. Kosowski separately waived a jury determination during a potential penalty phase, while prosecutors are seeking the death penalty.

The case dates back to March 21, 2023, when Cozzi, a 41-year-old attorney with Blanchard Law in Largo, disappeared from his workplace. Prosecutors allege that Cozzi went into the firm’s men’s bathroom and never returned. His phone, wallet, keys and vehicle were left behind, while investigators found a significant amount of blood inside the bathroom. Cozzi’s body has never been recovered.

Prosecutors have presented surveillance footage and forensic evidence that they say connect Kosowski to the disappearance. They allege that a person resembling Kosowski was recorded entering the law office and later leaving with a large container or wagon. Blood evidence and DNA recovered from the office have also been presented as part of the state’s case. These are prosecutorial allegations and evidence presented at trial, not findings of guilt.

The prosecution has also argued that Kosowski had a motive connected to litigation involving his former employer. Cozzi’s firm had represented parties in a lawsuit Kosowski filed after leaving the Laufer Institute for Plastic Surgery. Cozzi’s husband, Michael Montgomery, testified during the first week of trial that he had become concerned about Kosowski’s hostility toward his husband.

Kosowski’s decision to represent himself has become a notable feature of the proceedings. During the first week, he personally questioned witnesses and raised objections while attempting to challenge the state’s evidence. The trial continued through September 18, with additional testimony and evidence expected as the proceedings move forward.

The case remains ongoing. Because Kosowski is representing himself and the prosecution is seeking the death penalty, the outcome will ultimately depend on Judge Bulone’s findings after considering the evidence presented in court.

Source: FOX 13