A Florida man who confessed to police that he stabbed his girlfriend “a lot” was sentenced to 60 years in prison after pleading guilty to second-degree murder. The case, which unfolded in August 2022, involved Steven Joseph Cozens, 27, who was arrested in connection with the death of his 26-year-old girlfriend, identified only as “Jennifer” under Florida’s Marsy’s Law.
Cozens and his girlfriend were staying at an America’s Best Value Inn in Bradenton, Florida, at the time of the murder. On the morning of August 28, 2022, housekeeping staff discovered Jennifer’s body wrapped in a sheet under the bed. The staff immediately contacted authorities, prompting a police investigation. When officers arrived, Cozens was found near the scene and was quickly taken into custody. After being read his Miranda rights, Cozens admitted to killing his girlfriend, telling police that he had stabbed her “a lot.”
The events leading up to the murder began with a verbal argument between Cozens and Jennifer. According to reports, the confrontation escalated, and Cozens then stabbed her multiple times. Afterward, he attempted to conceal her body but fled the scene before he could get very far. Despite his efforts to evade capture, Cozens was apprehended by law enforcement within hours of the crime.
Initially, Cozens faced a charge of first-degree murder, but on December 19, 2024, he entered a plea of guilty to second-degree murder with a weapon. The court sentenced him to 60 years in state prison, with credit for time already served. The sentence was handed down after Cozens had been held in custody without bail for more than a year. He also has 30 days to appeal the ruling.
The case was handled by the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office Homicide Unit, whose quick work led to Cozens’ swift apprehension. Assistant State Attorney Suzanne O’Donnell praised the efforts of law enforcement in bringing the case to a close, stating that although the sentence would not bring Jennifer back, it would provide some measure of justice and comfort to her grieving family.
The murder of Jennifer has left a lasting impact on her loved ones, who have had to cope with the devastating loss. While the legal proceedings have concluded, the emotional toll on her family and friends remains. Cozens’ actions, which led to the tragic loss of life, have left many questioning the circumstances that led to the violent outburst.
The case highlights the disturbing reality of domestic violence and the tragic consequences that can result from seemingly small arguments escalating into deadly confrontations. It serves as a grim reminder of the importance of addressing issues of domestic abuse before they escalate to violence. In this case, Jennifer’s life was taken far too soon, and the senselessness of her death has left her family and community reeling.
Cozens’ plea deal and sentencing have provided some closure to the case, but it is unlikely to ease the pain felt by those who knew Jennifer. The legal system, while able to deliver justice, cannot replace the loss of a loved one, and for Jennifer’s family, the sentence may offer little comfort in the face of such a profound tragedy.
As Cozens begins his 60-year prison sentence, the case serves as a reminder of the devastating impact that violence can have on individuals and families. The hope is that through the prosecution and the work of law enforcement, other potential victims of domestic violence may be spared the same fate as Jennifer. While justice has been served in this case, the broader issue of domestic violence remains an ongoing challenge for society, requiring continued attention and action to prevent future tragedies.
