Stephan Sterns, the man facing charges over the murder of 13-year-old Madeline Soto, will have his lawyers argue for closed hearings today. The lawyers filed a motion stating that excessive media coverage and social media interaction on platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Facebook could impede their client's right to a fair trial. This was detailed in a statement provided by FOX 35 Orlando, which also mentioned the trial associated with the sex crimes charges is scheduled for May. In contrast, the murder trial is set for September.

As reported by WFTV, Sterns' attorneys are intent on keeping the media and the public out of the courtroom for the duration of his upcoming sex crimes trial. The defense argues that the public's knowledge of evidentiary hearings could jeopardize Sterns' potential for an impartial jury. It's a move with several media companies, including WESH 2, pushing back, with their lawyer advocating for open courts in Florida.

The egregious nature of the crimes alleged and the high profile of the case after Maddie was found dead days following her disappearance has led to extensive media attention. Sterns, who had been in a relationship with Maddie's mother, is accused of sexually abusing and recording the acts on his phone for years, as detailed by authorities cited in a WESH report. These accusations are central to the defense's desire for closed hearings.