Florida prosecutors are weighing whether to pursue the death penalty in their case against Stephan Sterns, who is accused of killing his girlfriend's 13-year-old daughter, among a litany of other felony charges.
Madeline Soto was first reported missing on February 26 - just days after her 13th birthday. After four days of searching, her body was discovered in a wooded area - though officials have not yet revealed her cause of death.
"The evidence shows an individual that was entrusted to keep Madeline safe made calculated moves to dispose [of] Madeline's belongings and place her body in a wooded area before she was ever reported missing," Kissimmee Police Chief Betty Holland said during a press conference.
"For four days, following her disappearance, the entire community was actively looking to find Madeline safe and alive."
Sterns, 37, was described as the longtime boyfriend of Madeline's mother. When investigators searched his phone they allegedly found "disturbing pictures and videos." The suspect was charged with capital sexual battery of a child, lewd or lascivious molestation, and unlawful possession of materials depicting the sexual performance of a child, according to the Orlando Sentinel.
Florida State Attorney Andrew Bain told reporters, on Wednesday, that the state was still debating whether they would pursue the death penalty.
"We're going to continue those discussions going forward, and we will let you know again when we make that decision as to whether we're going to see the death penalty in this case," he said.
