A Florida man named Stephan Sterns was arrested in February during an investigation into the disappearance and death of his girlfriend’s teenage daughter. He has officially been charged with first-degree murder in connection with the death of 13-year-old Madeline Soto. Soto was found dead on March 1, and it is alleged that Sterns killed her sometime between February 25 and 27. Police Chief Betty Holland stated that evidence shows Sterns made calculated moves to dispose of Madeline’s belongings and place her body in a wooded area before she was reported missing.
Sterns, who was dubbed the “prime suspect” in Soto’s disappearance, was initially taken into custody on unrelated charges of sexual battery and possession of child sexual abuse material after turning in his phone to police. The images and videos on his phone were found to be criminal and sexual in nature. In addition, he was also charged with multiple counts of sexual battery of a child under 12, sexual battery with a child aged 12 to 18, lewd and lascivious molestation, and unlawful possession of materials depicting sexual performance by a child. Court documents suggested that Sterns may have abused Maddie for years leading up to her disappearance and death.
As of Wednesday, Sterns is the only person charged in Soto’s disappearance and death. However, the investigation remains active, according to Will Jay, the Homicide Unit chief for the State Attorney’s Office for the 9th Judicial Circuit. Sterns was reportedly the last person to see Soto on February 26 when he dropped her off a few blocks away from her school. Her mother later discovered that Maddie never made it inside the school that day. It has not been decided if the death penalty will be sought against Sterns. State Attorney Andrew Bain stated that the decision is still being discussed to ensure that a legal decision appropriate for this case is made.
In light of the charges against him, Sterns remains in custody at the Osceola County Jail with no bond. The investigation into the disappearance and death of Madeline Soto is ongoing, and law enforcement officials are working diligently to ensure that justice is served. The tragic loss of a young life has had a devastating impact on the community, and it is crucial that those responsible are held accountable for their actions. As more information becomes available and the legal process continues, the hope is that closure will be brought to the family of Madeline Soto and that justice will be served in this heartbreaking case.
