Accused killer anticipates death penalty in Florida trial

Stephan Sterns, 38, is facing charges for the murder of 13-year-old Madeline Soto in Florida. Authorities believe he sexually abused her over several years while dating her mother. Sterns has been making recorded phone calls from jail. In these calls, he expressed regret for his actions. He said he "snapped" during the incident and wished he had called for help earlier. His mother replied, hoping that maybe Madeline could have been saved. Madeline was reported missing on February 26, 2024. Her body was discovered in the woods four days later, wearing clothes similar to those she had on when she disappeared. Police claim Sterns was the last person to see her alive and that he strangled her to death. In the calls, Sterns denies responsibility for her murder, claiming he found her body after she had died. He mentioned that his girlfriend, Madeline’s mother, knew about her daughter’s feelings for him. He discussed the sexual images recovered by police from his phone and mentioned that they often shared a bed with the girl. Sterns has acknowledged that he could face the death penalty if convicted. He described his situation as either facing execution or spending life in prison. He suggested that everyone might share some blame for what happened, indicating he believes it was an accident. Sterns is set to go on trial for murder in May.