In the ongoing case involving the tragic death of 13-year-old Madeline "Maddie" Soto, new motions have been put forth by the defense team of Stephan Sterns, the man accused of her rape and murder. Sterns' legal representation is seeking to delay an upcoming suppression hearing, citing the recent acquisition of "confidential information" that could affect the case. This plea for postponement aims to enable the defense to prepare properly in light of the new evidence, according to FOX 35 Orlando.
Previously, Sterns' public defender filed motions to prevent jurors from viewing evidence sourced from the defendant's phone and Google account, based on claims of unlawful seizure. Despite that, the prosecution maintains that Sterns consented to the search, and the acquisition of explicit imagery connected to the case was legitimate.
The defense team's request for a delay was brought to light in documents where the attorney wrote, "Since filing [the suppression motions in February], the Defense has come into possession of confidential information that may impact the presentation of evidence at that hearing," as reported by ClickOrlando. A hearing has been scheduled for this Tuesday to determine whether the upcoming suppression hearing on Wednesday warrants a delay. Prosecutors are opposing the postponement, according to court records.
Amid these legal maneuvers, the haunting narrative of Maddie's disappearance, which began in February 2024, remains at the center of public attention. The girl, who lived in Kissimmee with her mother, Sterns, and another adult roommate, was last seen by Sterns as he claims to have dropped her off at school. Sterns faces dire accusations encompassing first-degree murder and additional counts related to allegations of sexual abuse and child pornography. According to WFTV, he has pleaded not guilty to all charges. The murder trial is scheduled to commence on September 22.
