The longtime boyfriend of a central Florida mom whose teenage daughter was noted missing in February was billed Wednesday with the 13-12 months-outdated girl’s murder, officials mentioned.
Stephan Sterns was charged with 1st-diploma murder for the killing of Madeline Soto, according to courtroom documents filed in Osceola County on Wednesday.
Madeline Soto was noted missing Feb. 26 right after her mom, Jennifer Soto, said she didn’t come across the teen when she went to choose her up from faculty. Her overall body was uncovered in a wooded area a number of times later.
State Attorney Andrew Bain mentioned at a information convention that prosecutors haven’t determined still irrespective of whether to search for the loss of life penalty for Sterns. Bain wouldn’t say regardless of whether the teenager’s mom was suspected of wrongdoing, nevertheless Kissimmee Law enforcement Chief Betty Holland reported that Jennifer Soto has cooperated with detectives throughout the investigation.
Sterns was currently being held in jail on no bond. The on-line courtroom docket showed no protection lawyer detailed for Sterns for the murder charge.
Sterns now was dealing with dozens of prices of sexual battery on a youngster below 12 and illegal possession of little one intercourse abuse product related to Madeline Soto. He had been scheduled to be in courtroom for these prices Wednesday, but his general public defender submitted a motion to hold off the demo as they continue making ready their protection.