Ep 14. Party's Over: Tyco's Kozlowski
- TVPG
- March 19, 2008
- 2640 min
In season two, episode 14 of American Greed, titled "Party's Over: Tyco's Kozlowski," viewers are taken on a journey through the rise and fall of one of the most prolific white-collar criminals in American history. The episode focuses on Dennis Kozlowski, the former CEO of the conglomerate Tyco International, and the shocking crimes he committed during his time at the top.
Throughout the episode, viewers are introduced to Kozlowski's lavish lifestyle, marked by expensive real estate holdings, private jets, and opulent parties. Such extravagant spending sprees were funded by Kozlowski's intense desire for success, as well as his willingness to engage in unethical behavior, including embezzlement, fraud, and tax evasion.
As the episode progresses, viewers witness the unraveling of Kozlowski's empire, as whistleblowers within Tyco begin to shed light on the CEO's illegal activities. Despite these early warning signs, Kozlowski continues to push the boundaries of corporate responsibility, even going so far as to authorize the payment of a $2 million birthday party for his wife in Sardinia, Italy.
Ultimately, Kozlowski's greed catches up with him, as he is arrested, charged, and eventually convicted of multiple counts of grand larceny and securities fraud. Along the way, viewers gain insight into the factors that contributed to Kozlowski's downfall, including his disregard for the law, his arrogance, and his inability to resist the temptation of wealth and power.
Through interviews with key players in the case, archival footage, and dramatic reenactments, "Party's Over: Tyco's Kozlowski" offers a gripping, cautionary tale of the consequences of greed and the importance of corporate accountability. As one of the most notorious financial scandals in recent memory, Kozlowski's story serves as a stark reminder of the need for transparency, oversight, and ethical leadership in the business world.