Kissimmee Police Clear Jennifer Soto of Charges in Connection with Daughter’s Death; Investigation Continues

The Murder Of Maddie Soto

The Kissimmee Police Department announced that no charges will be filed against Jennifer Soto, the mother of 13-year-old Madeline Soto, whose tragic death shocked the community earlier this year. Despite an intensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding Madeline's disappearance and death, authorities have determined that Jennifer Soto has not committed any criminal acts related to the case.
Madeline Soto was first reported missing on February 26, 2024, after she failed to show up at Hunters Creek Middle School, where she was a student. The alarm was raised by school officials, leading to a search that eventually ended in the grim discovery of her body in rural Osceola County.
During the investigation, Jennifer Soto was interviewed by detectives from the Orange County Sheriff's Office. In a recorded interview conducted late on February 27, Soto explained that she did not see Madeline on the morning of her disappearance, as she assumed her daughter was preparing for school while she attended a doctor’s appointment. Soto’s boyfriend, Stephan Sterns, was supposed to drop Madeline off at school, but he failed to do so. This failure would later lead to chilling revelations.
Stearns was arrested on February 28, initially charged with sexual battery and possession of child sexual abuse material after investigators discovered graphic photos and videos on his phone, believed to involve Madeline. As the investigation progressed, further evidence emerged, leading to Sterns being charged with first-degree murder on April 24.
One of the critical pieces of evidence against Sterns was traffic camera footage showing him driving with what appeared to be Madeline's limp body in the front seat of his car on the morning she was reported missing. Authorities believe Madeline was already dead at this time, possibly for several hours.
In her interview with detectives, Jennifer Soto provided details about the relationship between Sterns and her daughter, which investigators found concerning. When asked about the sleeping arrangements in their household, Soto stated, “Sometimes when I really need a good night’s sleep, I will send them upstairs. But when, I’ll also—a lot of times we will sleep together in the king-sized bed. All three of us. Or sometimes Stephan will go upstairs and share a bed alone. So it just really depends on what’s going on that night with our schedules and what we’re doing.”
Despite these unsettling details, authorities have concluded that there is no evidence to suggest Jennifer Soto was involved in her daughter’s death. “Sources have confirmed that Jennifer Soto has done nothing criminal so far, so she will not face charges,” reported Channel 9’s Shannon Butler.
Madeline’s body was found after a week-long search, bringing a heartbreaking conclusion to a case that has raised many questions about the events leading up to her death. As of now, Sterns remains the only person charged in connection with Madeline’s death. The State Attorney’s Office has stated its intention to seek the death penalty against him.
However, the investigation is not over. During a press conference in April, Homicide Unit Chief Will Jay emphasized, “This is not over. There is an ongoing investigation to uncover more evidence.” Authorities have suggested that others who were close to Madeline remain under scrutiny, with the possibility of additional charges if new evidence comes to light.
Kissimmee Police Chief Betty Holland also commented on the ongoing investigation, saying, “Everyone that was close to Madeline is considered suspect until we have proven otherwise.”
As the community grapples with the loss of a young life, the legal proceedings against Sterns continue. His next court appearance is scheduled for mid-October, where a status hearing will take place. The outcome of this case will be closely watched as investigators work to ensure that justice is fully served for Madeline Soto.
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