Kissimmee, Florida – A Florida man arrested in connection with the disappearance and death of his girlfriend’s teenage daughter has now been charged with murder. Stephan Sterns, 38, was taken into custody on unrelated charges and has been formally charged with first-degree murder in the death of 13-year-old Madeline Soto.
Madeline Soto was found deceased on March 1, with the indictment revealing that Sterns allegedly killed her between February 25 and 27. Kissimmee Police Chief Betty Holland stated in a news conference that evidence indicates Sterns disposed of Madeline’s belongings and moved her body to a wooded area before she was reported missing.
Initially, Sterns was apprehended for sexual battery and possession of illicit material related to child sexual abuse. A Digital Forensics Unit discovered disturbing images and videos on Sterns’ phone, although it was not specified if they involved Madeline Soto.
In addition to the murder charge, Sterns faces numerous counts of sexual battery, lewd and lascivious molestation, and unlawful possession of materials depicting sexual performance by a child. Court documents suggest that Sterns may have been abusing Maddie for an extended period leading up to her disappearance and demise.
Despite Sterns being the sole individual charged thus far in the case, the investigation remains active. Sterns was reportedly the last person to see Madeline on February 26, when he allegedly dropped her off near her school.
As the case unfolds, the possibility of pursuing the death penalty against Sterns is under consideration. State Attorney Andrew Bain mentioned that the decision regarding the death penalty would be carefully evaluated in the coming weeks.
Currently incarcerated without bond at the Osceola County Jail, Sterns awaits further legal proceedings in the tragic case of Madeline Soto’s disappearance and death.