BREAKING: GUILTY PLEA

Today, Stephan Sterns pled guilty to all charges in the tragic case of 13-year-old Madeline Soto. His charges include murder and sexual battery of a child under 12.

We heard emotional and heartbreaking statements from those who loved Madeline most. Her grandmother spoke of a broken family left in pieces, a home torn apart by grief. A former roommate of Stephan’s described the trauma she now carries after discovering he had secretly taken sensitive photos of her—leaving her struggling with anxiety and deep trust issues. Aunts and cousins shared sleepless nights and the pain of a future forever altered, each of them expressing their enduring love for the young girl.

Perhaps most devastating was the statement from Madeline’s father—a man so close to bringing his daughter home. His words painted a picture of hope, now shattered, and of a heartbroken parent forced to bury his child because of the coward in that courtroom today.

But amid all the sorrow and testimony, there was one voice we didn’t hear—a statement from Madeline’s mother was notably absent.

As part of the plea agreement, the death penalty has been taken off the table, but Sterns will now face life behind bars without the possibility of parole.

The trial was set to begin tomorrow, with a separate murder trial scheduled for later this year. With this plea, Sterns avoids trial—but also avoids seeing the disturbing collection of photos and videos that were to be used against him in court.

Our hearts remain with Madeline and all who loved her. May justice and healing begin, even in the shadow of such horror.