Kissimmee, Florida – A man arrested in February, suspected in the disappearance and death of his girlfriend’s teenage daughter, now faces murder charges. Stephan Sterns, 38, was charged with first-degree murder in connection with the death of 13-year-old Madeline Soto, whose body was discovered on March 1. Authorities allege that Sterns killed Soto sometime between February 25 and February 27, according to an indictment from the investigation.
During a news conference, Kissimmee Police Chief Betty Holland stated, “The evidence shows an individual that was entrusted to keep Madeline safe made calculated moves to dispose of Madeline’s belongings and place her body in a wooded area before she was ever reported missing.” Sterns, initially taken into custody on unrelated sexual charges, was dubbed the “prime suspect” in Soto’s disappearance. He voluntarily handed over his phone to authorities, leading to the discovery of criminal and sexual images and videos. Subsequently, he was also charged with numerous sexual offenses, including sexual battery and possession of child sexual abuse material.
In light of the new charges, court documents suggest that Sterns might have abused Soto for an extended period leading up to her disappearance and death. While Sterns remains the sole individual facing charges in connection to Soto’s case, the investigation continues to progress. Will Jay, from the Homicide Unit chief for the State Attorney’s Office, emphasized that the case remains active despite Sterns being the last person to see Soto before her disappearance. Sterns allegedly dropped her off near her school on the morning she went missing, as reported by police during his arrest in February.
The possibility of seeking the death penalty against Sterns has not been decided as per State Attorney Andrew Bain. A legal decision on pursuing the death penalty is expected in the coming weeks. For now, Sterns remains in jail without bond as the investigation unravels further details regarding Soto’s tragic fate.