60 New Charges Filed Against Mom’s Boyfriend in Madeline Soto Murder Case

Stefan Stearns, the boyfriend of Madeline Soto’s mother, faces 60 new charges in connection with the murder and abuse of the 13-year-old girl. Soto was reported missing on February 26th, and her body was found in a wooded area in Osceola County, Florida. The new charges against Stearns include multiple counts of sexual battery on a child under 12, lewd and lascivious molestation, and possession of child pornography.

Stearns was initially arrested on February 28th after investigators discovered disturbing images and videos on his phone. Despite attempting to perform a factory reset, forensic experts retrieved files showing ongoing abuse dating back to 2019. This evidence played a crucial role in the charges being brought against him.

The timeline of events reveals that Stearns claimed to have dropped Madeline off at school, but surveillance footage showed inconsistencies in his story. Instead, he was seen disposing of items, including Madeline’s backpack and school laptop, in a dumpster. Detectives found evidence suggesting that Madeline was killed at home before Stearns moved her body.

Sheriff John Mina confirmed that Stearns had been seen driving with Madeline’s body in his vehicle and returning to their apartment complex. The combined efforts of multiple law enforcement agencies led to the recovery of her body and the arrest of Stearns.

The new charges include eight counts of sexual battery on a child under 12, five counts of sexual battery with a child 12 to 18, seven counts of lewd and lascivious molestation, and 40 counts of possessing child pornography. The severity and volume of these charges underscore the horrific nature of the crimes Stearns is accused of committing.

As the case progresses, the community remains in shock and grief over the loss of Madeline Soto. The legal proceedings will continue to unfold, with the next court appearance scheduled soon.