Jail call reveals murder suspect's chilling comments

A disturbing jail call was released featuring Stephan Sterns, a man accused of murdering his girlfriend's 13-year-old daughter, Madeline Soto. Sterns, 38, faces the death penalty if found guilty of murder and sexual battery. Madeline was discovered dead in St. Cloud, Florida, on March 1, 2024. In the call, Sterns described finding Madeline's body as "ice cold" and claimed he was unaware of her death at that time. He said he was driving in the area near where her body was found when she disappeared. Madeline was last seen on February 26, 2024, when Sterns, dating Jennifer Soto, her mother, claimed to have dropped her off at school. Police investigations found inconsistencies in Sterns' story. He said he had difficulty remembering details due to anxiety medication and stated that he was experiencing panic attacks. Despite this, surveillance footage showed him discarding items, including Madeline's backpack and school laptop, at a dumpster shortly after he was supposed to have dropped her off at school. Sterns was arrested on February 28, 2024, and later charged with multiple offenses, including sexual battery against Madeline. Evidence on his phone also showed unrelated material involving child sexual abuse. As the investigation progressed, Sterns faced over 60 charges, including first-degree murder. In a recent court hearing on March 20, 2025, lawyers discussed whether the trial should be open to the public. The judge will make a decision in the coming days.