A Florida man, Stephan Sterns, is facing charges of first-degree murder in the death of 13-year-old Madeline 'Maddie' Soto. The last person to see Maddie alive was Stephan Sterns, who is also accused of dozens of sexual assault and child sex abuse-related charges. Maddie was reported missing on February 26, 2023, after she failed to show up at her school in Kissimmee. Her body was found several days later. Evidence suggests that Maddie was never dropped off near her school on the morning she vanished, and video footage shows Sterns discarding items in a dumpster at the family's apartment complex at 7:35 a.m., including Maddie's backpack. Disturbing images were found on Sterns' phone during the investigation into Maddie's disappearance, some of which he attempted to delete. The alleged sex crimes took place at Maddie's home. Stephan Sterns remains jailed without bond as of Thursday.
Maddie was last seen wearing a green sweatshirt, black shorts, and white Crocs on the morning she disappeared. If convicted of capital murder, Sterns faces the death penalty.
The investigation into Maddie's disappearance began on February 26 when her mother reported her missing. The Orange County Sheriff's Office and Kissimmee Police Department launched a search for Maddie, but her body was found several days later in Osceola County. Sterns was arrested on February 28 in connection to the case.
Sterns is currently facing over 100 charges related to sexual battery, child pornography, and lewd or lascivious molestation. He previously had a relationship with Maddie's mother.
The Kissimmee Police Department and Orange County Sheriff's Office are continuing their investigation into the case. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the authorities.
