OSCEOLA COUNTY, Fla. – Stephan Sterns has been charged with first-degree murder in the death of 13-year-old Madeline Soto, nearly two months after her body was discovered in Osceola County.
Sterns, who is the boyfriend of Madeline Soto’s mother Jennifer Soto, was indicted on Wednesday by a grand jury for allegedly killing Soto between Feb. 25 and Feb. 27, 2024. Soto was reported missing on Feb. 26 after failing to show up to school, Hunter’s Creek Middle School, and her body was found on March 1.
Details surrounding Soto’s death, including her autopsy report, have not been released due to the ongoing investigation. Kissimmee Police Chief Betty Holland mentioned that evidence suggests Sterns made calculated moves to dispose of Madeline’s belongings and hide her body before she was reported missing.
Prosecutors are considering seeking the death penalty against Sterns, with State Attorney Andrew Bain stating that they will evaluate the decision in the coming weeks. Sterns faces multiple charges, including sexual battery, lewd and lascivious molestation, and possession of child pornography in a separate case.
Jenn Soto, Madeline’s mother, has not been named a suspect or person of interest in her daughter’s disappearance or death. However, those close to Maddie are considered suspects until ruled out. The investigation into Soto’s case is ongoing, with Sterns being the only individual charged thus far.
A trial date was set for Sterns, but a continuance was granted on April 24. Sterns currently faces 60 additional charges, and a pre-trial hearing is scheduled for July 10, followed by a jury trial on Aug. 19.
Sheriff John Mina from the Orange County Sheriff’s Office indicated that Maddie was last seen on Feb. 26 when Sterns dropped her off at school but she never arrived. Her body was discovered in a wooded area off Old History Tree Road in rural Osceola County, days after she was reported missing.
The case continues to be complex, with investigations ongoing to determine the events leading up to Madeline’s tragic death. The comprehensive work conducted by law enforcement agencies aims to provide justice for Madeline Soto.