California Mom Laments Lenient Sentence for Rich Socialite Who Killed Her Two Sons

After a high-speed crash that claimed the lives of two young boys, a wealthy Los Angeles socialite receives a 15-year-to-life sentence, leaving the victims' mother vowing to confront her in prison for answers and closure.

The mother of two California boys who were fatally struck by a wealthy Los Angeles socialite in a speeding Mercedes-Benz has expressed outrage over the lenient sentence handed down to her sons' killer. Nancy Iskander, whose sons Mark, 11, and Jacob, 8, were killed in the 2020 crash, has vowed to confront the convicted murderer, Rebecca Grossman, in prison in the hope that she will someday express remorse.

Grossman, a 60-year-old co-founder of a prominent burn center and a wealthy philanthropist, was sentenced to 15 years to life in prison for two counts of second-degree murder and fleeing the scene of an accident. Despite her conviction, prosecutors described Grossman as a "completely self-serving" narcissist who has refused to take responsibility for her actions.

Iskander witnessed the horrific crash firsthand, along with her youngest son Zachary, who was 5 at the time. They watched in horror as Grossman's Mercedes sped toward them at an estimated 81 mph, slamming into Mark and Jacob and leaving them fatally injured. Grossman then fled the scene, only to be apprehended later.

Compounding Iskander's grief is the fact that Grossman's sentences for the two murders were not imposed consecutively, which she believes minimizes the value of her sons' lives. She also criticizes Grossman for attempting to use her wealth and notoriety to buy her way out of the consequences of her crime, including an anonymous donation of $25,000 toward the boys' funeral costs.

Prosecutors have voiced their concerns about Grossman's lack of remorse and her repeated violations of court orders while behind bars, including attempted juror tampering. They maintain that she deserves no leniency and that the judge's sentence is deeply offensive.

Iskander's determination to find closure has led her to establish a charitable foundation in honor of Mark and Jacob, as well as a foster care project that will soon be licensed in Los Angeles. While she acknowledges the constant flashbacks that haunt her, she finds solace in helping others and in keeping the memory of her sons alive through their legacy.

Despite the heartbreak and anger she feels, Iskander remains hopeful that she can help other parents who have experienced the trauma of losing a child. She encourages them to maintain their faith and find strength in the midst of their loss.