TAMPA, Fla. – A heinous crime has shocked the community of Osceola County, Florida, as Stephan Sterns faces first-degree murder charges in connection with the death and disappearance of 13-year-old Madeline Soto. Sterns, who lived with and was in a relationship with Madeline’s mother, had previously faced 60 child sex crime charges for the alleged sexual abuse of Madeline dating back to 2019.
Court documents indicate that Sterns is accused of killing Madeline sometime between February 25 and 27. Disturbing images and videos found on Sterns’ phone led to charges including sexual battery of a child, lewd and lascivious molestation, and possession of child sexual abuse material.
A jury trial has been scheduled for August 19, with Sterns’ arraignment set for 1:30 p.m. on Monday. The Orange County Sheriff’s Office reported that Madeline Soto was last seen alive on February 26. Surveillance footage captured Sterns disposing of items in a dumpster, including Madeline’s backpack and school laptop.
Further investigation revealed that Sterns was seen returning to his apartment complex with Madeline in the car, with officials suspecting that Madeline was already deceased at that time. Madeline’s body was discovered in the woods off Old Hickory Tree Road in Osceola County, an area where Sterns had been seen on the afternoon of February 26.
Sterns was initially arrested during the search for Madeline after her mother reported her missing. The investigation uncovered child sexual abuse materials on Sterns’ phone, taken at his residence. If found guilty of first-degree murder or sexual battery of a child, Sterns faces the possibility of life in prison or the death penalty. The tragic case continues to unfold as authorities seek justice for Madeline Soto.