Osceola County, Florida – Stephan Sterns has been charged with the murder of 13-year-old Madeline Soto, whose body was discovered in Osceola County nearly two months after her disappearance. Sterns, who is the boyfriend of Madeline’s mother Jennifer Soto, was indicted for first-degree murder by a grand jury, as confirmed by court records and officials from Osceola County.
According to the indictment, Sterns allegedly killed Soto between February 25 and 27, 2024, with her body being found on March 1. Soto was reported missing on February 26 when her mother went to pick her up from school but was informed that she was absent that day. It was later revealed that Soto never made it to school on that day.
Details surrounding Soto’s death and the events leading up to it have not been disclosed, including the results of her autopsy, as the investigation remains ongoing. Kissimmee Police Chief Betty Holland stated during a press conference that evidence suggests someone entrusted to protect Madeline made efforts to dispose of her belongings and conceal her body before her disappearance was reported.
Florida State Attorney Andrew Bain confirmed that Sterns will appear in court in the coming days, with no plea agreements currently on the table. The investigation remains open, and Sterns is the sole individual facing charges related to Soto’s death.
There is a possibility that Sterns may face the death penalty, which is being considered by prosecutors as they assess the case for trial. The decision on seeking the death penalty will be made in the coming weeks based on various factors and legal considerations.
While Madeline Soto’s mother, Jennifer Soto, has not been named as a suspect in her daughter’s disappearance or death, everyone close to Soto is still considered a suspect until ruled out. Investigations are ongoing, and law enforcement officials are working diligently to uncover the truth behind Soto’s tragic death.
As new information continues to emerge, the trial proceedings against Sterns have been set to start, with additional charges of sexual battery, lewd and lascivious molestation, and possession of child pornography in a separate case. The State Attorney’s Office has filed multiple charges against Sterns, based on the evidence gathered in the investigation.
The trial date for Sterns has been scheduled, with a pre-trial hearing and jury trial set to take place in the coming months. As the legal process unfolds, authorities are committed to seeking justice for Madeline Soto and ensuring that all involved parties are held accountable for their actions.
In light of the complex nature of the case and the numerous charges Sterns faces, law enforcement officials are dedicated to a thorough investigation to bring closure to the Soto family and ensure that justice is served for Madeline’s untimely death.