Courtroom Battle Over Punitive Damages in Wrongful Death Case

A fiery courtroom scene unfolded on Monday during the punitive phase of the wrongful death trial involving Rebecca Grossman and her former companion, Scott Erickson. Grossman, co-founder of the Grossman Burn Foundation, and Erickson, a former Dodgers pitcher, have already faced convictions for the deaths of two young boys. The jury now weighs additional financial penalties on top of the awarded $176 million.

Dr. Peter Grossman, Rebecca’s husband and a noted plastic surgeon, testified for a second day. Questioning came from Brian Panish, the attorney representing the family of Mark and Jacob Iskander, aged 11 and 8, who were hit by Grossman’s vehicle in Westlake Village in 2020.

The pain the Iskanders have had is enormous and there are no words that are enough. All I can say is that I am very, very sorry.

Panish pressed Grossman with questions about the events leading to the boys’ deaths, including Rebecca’s actions that night. Rebecca Grossman is currently sentenced to 15 years to life for second-degree murder.

Panish challenged Dr. Grossman’s sincerity and pressed him to admit his wife’s involvement in the fatalities. When asked to acknowledge her speeding and alleged intoxication, Peter defended his wife, describing some claims as inaccurate.

Dr. Grossman admitted to an apology for the family’s ordeal but resisted characterizations of drunk driving at high speeds. Panish presented evidence, including a blood alcohol level test of 0.08 taken hours after the incident.

Regarding the couple’s assets, Panish exposed property transfers and financial moves suggesting attempts to shield assets from the Iskander family’s compensation. He highlighted a $1-million loan from a family trust and other transfers to friends.

The courtroom exchanges were tense, as recorded phone calls were played, revealing derogatory comments made by Dr. Grossman. The court directed Panish and Grossman to focus on facts over beliefs throughout the testimony.

The punitive phase deliberations were set to begin on Tuesday, as the jury was reminded of their task to determine the financial penalties suitable for Grossman and Erickson’s actions.