Courtroom Drama in Rebecca Grossman Wrongful Death Trial

The courtroom heated up on Monday during the punitive phase of the civil wrongful death trial involving Rebecca Grossman and her former partner, Scott Erickson. Both have been found liable for the deaths of two young boys. The jury now considers financial penalties on top of the $176 million already awarded.

Testimony of Dr. Peter Grossman

Dr. Peter Grossman, husband of Rebecca Grossman, testified for a second day. Brian Panish, attorney for the victims’ family, questioned him about his family’s wealth and his wife’s actions that led to the deaths of Mark and Jacob Iskander, aged 11 and 8. These boys were struck by Grossman’s car in Westlake Village in 2020.

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

Panish pressed him about whether his wife had been drinking and speeding alongside Erickson on the night of the incident. Grossman’s vehicle, a Mercedes SUV, hit the boys at approximately 73 mph. Rebecca Grossman is serving 15 years to life for second-degree murder.

Panish Challenges Dr. Grossman

Panish continued to challenge Dr. Grossman:

• Panish: Have you ever apologized before now, after the jury’s decision?
• Grossman: That is not true.
• Panish: Do you admit your wife killed the two kids?
• Grossman: I admit Rebecca was involved accidentally.

Jurors learned Grossman was speeding and closely following Erickson after they left a cantina the night of the crash. They concluded both acted with malice, splitting $176 million in damages between them.

Asset Transfers Questioned

Panish pushed further, asking Dr. Grossman about various property transfers and potential asset concealment. Queries centered on a series of transactions involving Texas and Georgia properties and liens against a Hidden Hills mansion. Panish also questioned a $1-million loan from Peter Grossman’s brother’s trust and significant transfers to others.

During phone call recordings played in court, discussions suggested attempts to shield assets from the Iskanders. Panish accused them of planning to transfer funds to their children.

The punitive phase began last Thursday, aiming to assess malice, oppression, or fraud actions. The judge prompted jury deliberations to commence by Tuesday.