Accused Madeline Soto killer calls parents, reveals mindset

The murder case of Florida teen Madeline Soto has taken a new turn as the suspect, Stephan Sterns, 38, has been speaking out from jail through recorded phone calls to his parents. The audio recordings, obtained by WESH 2, reveal Sterns expressing remorse and regret for his actions.

In the calls, Sterns admits that he was not in his rational mind when the incident occurred and wishes he had taken the right actions to save Madeline. His mother also expresses regret, stating that perhaps Madeline could have been saved if Sterns had acted differently.

Madeline, a 13-year-old girl, was reported missing on February 26, 2024, after she failed to show up at her Orlando middle school. Her body was discovered four days later in the woods in Osceola County, wearing the same clothes she had on before she disappeared.

Sterns, who was confirmed to be the last person to see Madeline before her disappearance, is accused of strangling her to death. Police suspect that Sterns, who was in a relationship with Madeline’s mother, sexually abused the young girl for years.

Explicit photos of Madeline were found on Sterns’ phone, leading to further suspicions of his involvement in her death. In the phone calls with his parents, Sterns denies murdering Madeline but admits to finding her body after she had already died.

Despite not admitting to the murder, Sterns acknowledges that he could face the death penalty if convicted. He expresses acceptance of this possibility, stating that he would rather face the consequences than spend the rest of his life in a place where no one cares about him.

As the trial for Madeline’s murder approaches in May, the phone calls with Sterns’ parents provide insight into the case. Sterns maintains that the incident was an accident and suggests that blame may be shared among multiple parties involved.

The tragic case of Madeline Soto continues to unfold, with Sterns’ phone calls shedding light on the events leading up to her death. The trial will ultimately determine the truth behind Madeline’s murder and bring justice to her and her family.