Hidden Killers Live! Daily True Crime News & Breakdowns

By Hidden Killers PodcastNews True Crime News Commentary

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Hidden Killers Live! Daily True Crime News & Breakdowns episodes

May 28, 2024 Chad Daybell Trial: Court Dismissed Early as Key Witnesses Testify
In the ongoing trial of Chad Daybell, the courtroom was filled with dramatic testimonies from key witnesses as the defense continued its efforts to exonerate Daybell. The court proceedings were intense, with multiple witnesses called to the stand, including Chad Daybell's children and forensic experts.

The court session began with Fremont County Detective Sgt. Bruce Mattingly testifying about his involvement in Tammy Daybell’s death investigation, as well as the deaths of JJ and Tylee Ryan. Mattingly detailed his attempts to inform Emma Murray, one of Chad Daybell’s daughters, about the autopsy results of her mother. Despite numerous efforts, Emma expressed a desire to wait for the official release of the autopsy results and was reluctant to engage in discussions with law enforcement. "We’re just not interested in interviewing, answering any questions, we just want to see it," Emma stated.

The defense, led by attorney John Prior, cross-examined Mattingly, suggesting that his approach was more of a police tactic to elicit information rather than simply sharing results. Prior also questioned the timing and manner of informing the Daybell children about their mother's autopsy, emphasizing that the family had not been adequately contacted during the investigative process. VIDEO: Mattingly's approach was more of a police tactic to elicit information rather than simply sharing results

Later, the court heard from Jason MacKay Abegglen, who worked with Garth Daybell at a haunted house attraction. MacKay recounted a conversation where Garth mentioned finding his mother dead and his father not being home. MacKay's testimony aimed to support the defense’s narrative of Chad Daybell's innocence in Tammy Daybell's death. "He said he found her when he got home from work and he didn’t know where his father was," MacKay testified.

Dr. Eric Bartelink, a forensic anthropologist, provided insights into the condition of Tylee Ryan’s remains. Bartelink's testimony highlighted the extensive blunt force trauma and sharp force defects found on Tylee's bones, which he suggested could be consistent with perimortem injuries. He also noted the possibility of Tylee's body being burned as a whole, although he could not determine the exact location or time of the burning.
Throughout the proceedings, the defense continued to build its case by questioning the thoroughness and intentions of the investigation. Prior pointedly asked Mattingly about his interactions with the Daybell children and whether his motive was to gather incriminating reactions rather than provide information.

The session concluded with an unexpected announcement: the state had no further witnesses for the day, and the court would dismiss early, reconvening on Tuesday. The abrupt end to the day's testimony left many questions unanswered, particularly regarding the defense's strategy and the impact of the testimonies on the jury.

As the trial progresses, the defense's challenge remains to dismantle the prosecution’s narrative while addressing the rehearsed nature of the testimonies from Chad Daybell's children. The potential Freudian slip by defense attorney John Prior, where he referred to Tammy Daybell's death as a "murder," also added a layer of complexity to the case. Whether this slip will affect the jury's perception remains to be seen.

The trial is set to resume with more testimonies and cross-examinations, as both sides continue to present their arguments in this high-profile case.

#ChadDaybell #TammyDaybell #LoriVallow #JohnPryor #BruceMattingly #GarthDaybell #TyleeRyan

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The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
23 min
May 27, 2024 Daybell "Romance" Novel: A Dramatic Reading-WEEK IN REVIEW
Welcome to the "Week in Review," where we delve into the true stories behind this week's headlines. Your host, Tony Brueski, joins hands with a rotating roster of guests, sharing their insights and analysis on a collection of intriguing, perplexing, and often chilling stories that made the news.

This is not your average news recap. With the sharp investigative lens of Tony and his guests, the show uncovers layers beneath the headlines, offering a comprehensive perspective that traditional news can often miss. From high-profile criminal trials to in-depth examinations of ongoing investigations, this podcast takes listeners on a fascinating journey through the world of true crime and current events.

Each episode navigates through multiple stories, illuminating their details with factual reporting, expert commentary, and engaging conversation. Tony and his guests discuss each case's nuances, complexities, and human elements, delivering a multi-dimensional understanding to their audience.

Whether you are a dedicated follower of true crime, or an everyday listener interested in the stories shaping our world, the "Week in Review" brings you the perfect balance of intrigue, information, and intelligent conversation. Expect thoughtful analysis, informed opinions, and thought-provoking discussions beyond the 24-hour news cycle.
Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj
Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
13 min
May 27, 2024 Diddy's Apology Criticized as Insincere Amid Ongoing Legal Troubles and Disturbing Video Evidence-WEEK IN REVIEW
Welcome to the "Week in Review," where we delve into the true stories behind this week's headlines. Your host, Tony Brueski, joins hands with a rotating roster of guests, sharing their insights and analysis on a collection of intriguing, perplexing, and often chilling stories that made the news.

This is not your average news recap. With the sharp investigative lens of Tony and his guests, the show uncovers layers beneath the headlines, offering a comprehensive perspective that traditional news can often miss. From high-profile criminal trials to in-depth examinations of ongoing investigations, this podcast takes listeners on a fascinating journey through the world of true crime and current events.

Each episode navigates through multiple stories, illuminating their details with factual reporting, expert commentary, and engaging conversation. Tony and his guests discuss each case's nuances, complexities, and human elements, delivering a multi-dimensional understanding to their audience.

Whether you are a dedicated follower of true crime, or an everyday listener interested in the stories shaping our world, the "Week in Review" brings you the perfect balance of intrigue, information, and intelligent conversation. Expect thoughtful analysis, informed opinions, and thought-provoking discussions beyond the 24-hour news cycle.
Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj
Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
10 min
May 27, 2024 DAYBELL READING 1 CHAPTER 1-WEEK IN REVIEW
Welcome to the "Week in Review," where we delve into the true stories behind this week's headlines. Your host, Tony Brueski, joins hands with a rotating roster of guests, sharing their insights and analysis on a collection of intriguing, perplexing, and often chilling stories that made the news.

This is not your average news recap. With the sharp investigative lens of Tony and his guests, the show uncovers layers beneath the headlines, offering a comprehensive perspective that traditional news can often miss. From high-profile criminal trials to in-depth examinations of ongoing investigations, this podcast takes listeners on a fascinating journey through the world of true crime and current events.

Each episode navigates through multiple stories, illuminating their details with factual reporting, expert commentary, and engaging conversation. Tony and his guests discuss each case's nuances, complexities, and human elements, delivering a multi-dimensional understanding to their audience.

Whether you are a dedicated follower of true crime, or an everyday listener interested in the stories shaping our world, the "Week in Review" brings you the perfect balance of intrigue, information, and intelligent conversation. Expect thoughtful analysis, informed opinions, and thought-provoking discussions beyond the 24-hour news cycle.
Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj
Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
15 min
May 26, 2024 The Crazy Jailhouse Calls Between Chad Daybell & Lori Vallow-WEEK IN REVIEW
Welcome to the "Week in Review," where we delve into the true stories behind this week's headlines. Your host, Tony Brueski, joins hands with a rotating roster of guests, sharing their insights and analysis on a collection of intriguing, perplexing, and often chilling stories that made the news.

This is not your average news recap. With the sharp investigative lens of Tony and his guests, the show uncovers layers beneath the headlines, offering a comprehensive perspective that traditional news can often miss. From high-profile criminal trials to in-depth examinations of ongoing investigations, this podcast takes listeners on a fascinating journey through the world of true crime and current events.

Each episode navigates through multiple stories, illuminating their details with factual reporting, expert commentary, and engaging conversation. Tony and his guests discuss each case's nuances, complexities, and human elements, delivering a multi-dimensional understanding to their audience.

Whether you are a dedicated follower of true crime, or an everyday listener interested in the stories shaping our world, the "Week in Review" brings you the perfect balance of intrigue, information, and intelligent conversation. Expect thoughtful analysis, informed opinions, and thought-provoking discussions beyond the 24-hour news cycle.
Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj
Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
16 min
May 24, 2024 Experts Testify on Phone Data and DNA in Chad Daybell Trial
The Chad Daybell trial resumed today with critical testimonies from forensic experts, shedding light on the digital and DNA evidence crucial to the case. Patrick Eller, CEO of Metadata Forensics, continued his testimony, offering detailed insights into the phone data analysis that forms a pivotal part of the investigation.

Eller, a digital forensic examiner with extensive experience, testified about the search and analysis of phone data related to Chad Daybell and Alex Cox. Eller revealed that despite efforts, no location data for Chad Daybell's phones were found at the Daybell property during the crucial dates under investigation. "Chad had multiple phones," Eller noted, emphasizing the complexity of tracking his movements accurately.

Eller discussed the process of geofencing and metadata analysis, explaining how Google’s data helped identify devices near the Daybell property. "The best source of data about phones is the phone itself. Even with settings toggled, the data can still be found on the device," Eller stated. He clarified the difference between visible data and the metadata attached to it, using a digital image analogy to illustrate his point.

During cross-examination, prosecutor Rob Wood focused on the phone records and geofence data. Wood presented a map with data points showing phone activities near the Daybell property. Eller confirmed seeing Chad Daybell’s phone number calling Alex Cox on September 9, 2019, around 8 a.m. However, Eller admitted he couldn't recall if he examined Tammy Daybell's phone, adding a layer of ambiguity to the investigation.

Defense attorney John Prior's redirect examination sought to clarify whether there were any data points indicating that Chad Daybell and Alex Cox's devices were together at the property. Eller confirmed there were no such data points, reinforcing the defense's narrative.

The afternoon session featured Dr. Greg Hampikian, a professor from Boise State University and an expert in biology and criminal justice, who continued his testimony regarding DNA evidence. Hampikian’s review of DNA data found no evidence that Chad Daybell’s hair was on the tape used to bind JJ Vallow’s body. "The four hairs tested did not belong to JJ Vallow, Lori Vallow, Chad Daybell, or Alex Cox," Hampikian testified.

Hampikian also discussed his involvement in other high-profile cases, including the Amanda Knox case, to underscore his expertise. His lab, while not accredited like a criminal investigatory lab, provides crucial analysis using advanced tools and technology.

The testimonies of Patrick Eller and Dr. Greg Hampikian provided significant insights into the forensic analysis central to the Chad Daybell trial. Eller's expertise in digital forensics and Hampikian’s DNA analysis are critical as the court continues to dissect the evidence. The trial remains a focal point of public interest, with each session revealing more about the intricate details of this high-profile case.

This case continues to evolve as the court delves deeper into the digital and biological evidence, seeking justice for JJ Vallow and Tylee Ryan.

Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj
Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Karen Read Trial, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
25 min
May 24, 2024 Key Witness Faces Intense Cross-Examination in Karen Read Murder Trial
Friends of the late Boston police officer John O'Keefe took the stand in Norfolk Superior Court Wednesday, offering emotional testimonies in the ongoing Karen Read murder trial. This came after key witness Jennifer McCabe endured a third day of grueling cross-examination.

The trial, centering on the death of O'Keefe, who was found unresponsive outside a Canton home on January 29, 2022, has seen dramatic developments, particularly surrounding McCabe’s involvement and testimony.

Defense attorney Alan Jackson's cross-examination of McCabe focused on alleged inconsistencies in her accounts and controversial Google searches made on her phone. Jackson presented data showing McCabe searched "how long to die in cold" hours before O'Keefe’s body was found. J

McCabe, visibly emotional, defended her actions, stating, "I did not make that search at that time. I never would have left John O'Keefe out in the cold to die because he was my friend that I loved." She claimed she was researching a basketball team for her daughter around that time and that the search for how long it takes someone to die in the cold was conducted later at Read’s request.

Read, charged with second-degree murder, among other charges, has pleaded not guilty, with her defense team arguing that she is being framed. During cross-examination, McCabe was questioned about her relationship with state police investigators and conversations she had about the case in group chats.
Following McCabe’s testimony, Kerry Roberts, Laura Sullivan, and Marietta Sullivan took the stand, each sharing emotional recounts of their interactions with O'Keefe and the events surrounding his death.

Roberts, one of O'Keefe's closest friends, described the frantic search for him, ending with Read discovering his snow-covered body. She recounted the panic and efforts to revive him, stating, "Read panicked and ran around the scene, asking if she hit him and whether he was dead."

The Sullivan sisters provided context to the relationships and tensions leading up to O'Keefe’s death, particularly an incident during a New Year’s trip to Aruba. Laura Sullivan recalled Read accusing O'Keefe of kissing her sister, causing apparent tension.
As the trial progresses, the defense continues to challenge the credibility of the prosecution's witnesses, while the prosecution aims to solidify the timeline and motivations behind the tragic events. The case remains a focal point of public and media attention, with the court sessions revealing intricate details about the night of O'Keefe’s death and the complex relationships between those involved.
This case remains critical in understanding the complex interplay of relationships, alleged actions, and the tragic outcome that led to O'Keefe's untimely death.

Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj
Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Karen Read Trial, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
25 min
May 23, 2024 Forensic Pathologist Testifies Tammy Daybell's Cause of Death Should Be Undetermined
The trial of Chad Daybell took an intriguing turn as forensic pathologist Dr. Kathy Raven testified, asserting that Tammy Daybell’s cause of death should be classified as undetermined. This challenges the Utah Medical Examiner's previous ruling of asphyxia.

The court session began with prosecutor Wixom addressing a minor inaccuracy in Heather Daybell’s testimony regarding her communication with Detective Hope. Both Wixom and defense attorney John Prior agreed it was inconsequential, allowing the court to move forward without further concern.

Judge Boyce noted that the defense had two more witnesses scheduled to testify, but they were not present. Until their arrival, the court addressed matters outside the jury’s presence, ensuring the trial continued smoothly despite the temporary absence of witnesses.

Dr. Kathy Raven, a board-certified forensic pathologist with over 25 years of experience, provided critical testimony. She reviewed Tammy Daybell’s autopsy report, photos, toxicology results, and various investigative documents. Raven concluded that the cause of Tammy’s death should be classified as undetermined due to the lack of anatomical evidence.

“There was no anatomical cause of death found for Tammy Daybell,” Raven testified. “All her organs appeared normal, and the toxicology report was extensive with no positive findings, making poisoning unlikely.”

Raven also addressed the bruises found on Tammy’s body, describing them as nonspecific and inconclusive in determining the cause of death. “The bruises on her arms were nonspecific and could not definitively point to asphyxia,” Raven explained.

Reegen Price, a neighbor of Chad Daybell, testified about hearing a gunshot before September 9 and discussing unusual events with law enforcement. Price mentioned creating a timeline with her husband to make sense of the strange occurrences involving the Daybells.

“I contacted law enforcement about a few unusual things I noticed,” Price said. “Hearing the gunshot was just one of many strange events.”

In a recent development in the ongoing Chad Daybell trial, a minor inaccuracy in the testimony of Heather Daybell was brought to the court's attention by prosecutor Wixom. Heather Daybell had testified earlier that she did not provide any information to Detective Hope. However, prosecutor Wixom discovered her name in a police report, indicating that she might have had some interaction with the detective. Wixom described the inaccuracy as inconsequential and promptly informed the court.

Dr. Kathy Raven’s testimony provided a crucial perspective, challenging the previously determined cause of death and emphasizing the lack of concrete anatomical evidence. As the trial progresses, the defense aims to cast doubt on the prosecution’s narrative, potentially influencing the jury’s perception of the events leading to Tammy Daybell’s death.

The trial continues with further testimonies and evidence reviews, keeping the courtroom and public engrossed in the unfolding legal drama.

Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj
Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Karen Read Trial, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

15 min
May 23, 2024 Defense Challenges Key Witness Testimony in Karen Read Murder Trial
The trial of Karen Read, accused of second-degree murder in the death of her boyfriend, Boston Police Officer John O’Keefe, took a dramatic turn as the defense challenged the testimony of key witness Jennifer McCabe. The defense contends that McCabe's current testimony contradicts her earlier statements, raising questions about the reliability of her account.

Jennifer McCabe testified that on the morning of January 29, 2022, she heard Karen Read say, “I hit him, I hit him, I hit him,” at the scene where O’Keefe’s body was found. However, defense attorney Alan Jackson pointed out that in her April 2022 grand jury testimony, McCabe did not mention this statement. Instead, she testified that Read asked, “Could I have hit him?” or “Did I hit him?”
“I don’t know if I said it in the grand jury but I can say today, with 100% certainty, that she said ‘I hit him, I hit him, I hit him,’” McCabe insisted during a tense cross-examination on the 15th day of the trial.

Karen Read, 44, faces charges of second-degree murder, motor vehicle manslaughter, and leaving the scene of a collision that resulted in the death of John O’Keefe, a 16-year veteran of the Boston Police Department. Prosecutors allege that after a night of drinking, Read and O’Keefe argued, leading to Read backing her Lexus SUV into him and leaving him to die in the cold during a snowstorm.

Jackson highlighted that McCabe reiterated 12 times in her grand jury testimony that Read’s statements were more questioning than affirmative. He questioned why McCabe did not initially report the alleged confession if it was her most “impactful” memory of the incident.

The defense has developed a theory that others present at the home of Brian and Nicole Albert on the night of O'Keefe's death had both the motive and opportunity to kill him. Jackson suggested that there was a conspiracy among McCabe, her husband, and members of the Albert family to frame Read. This theory includes inconsistencies in phone call records and alleged opportunities for collusion.

Brian Albert, one of the individuals the defense claims had a motive, is accused along with ATF Agent Brian Higgins and Colin Albert of being involved in O’Keefe’s death. The defense pointed to wounds on O’Keefe’s arms they say are consistent with dog bites, suggesting a possible attack by the Alberts’ German shepherd, Chloe.

McCabe testified about the events leading up to the discovery of O'Keefe's body. She described texting O’Keefe while he was en route to the Albert home for an afterparty with Read.

“There is no story. There’re facts and truth on this side of the case,” McCabe said firmly, accusing the defense of “spinning” a narrative.
As the trial continues, the discrepancies in witness testimonies and the defense’s third-party killer theory have added complexity to the case. The defense’s challenge to McCabe’s testimony underscores the contentious nature of the trial, with both sides presenting conflicting narratives about the events leading to John O’Keefe’s tragic death.
Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj
Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Karen Read Trial, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
17 min
May 22, 2024 Stephan Sterns Charged with Murder and Child Abuse in Madeline Soto Case
In a significant development in the case of Madeline Soto's disappearance and death, Stephan Sterns has been charged with first-degree murder. This indictment comes amid revelations of over 1,700 explicit images found on Sterns' Google Drive and inconsistencies in his account of the events surrounding Madeline's disappearance.

Sterns was initially arrested after detectives searching for Madeline discovered child sex abuse material on his cell phone. Sterns had voluntarily handed over his phone to law enforcement but claimed to have inadvertently performed a factory reset, erasing its contents. Despite this, investigators recovered over 1,700 images from a Google Drive account linked to Sterns. These images included explicit photos of Madeline, suggesting ongoing sexual abuse.

Shortly after his arrest, Sterns was charged with 60 counts of sexual battery, lewd and lascivious molestation, and possession of materials depicting the sexual performance of a child. "I don't know what the heck I did, but somehow, during the massive OS update, I managed to factory reset my phone and lose all of my contacts, all my information," Sterns told police in a recorded interview obtained by FOX 35.

In a grim turn of events, Sterns has now been indicted for first-degree murder in the death of Madeline Soto. Officials allege that Madeline was killed between February 25 and 27, although the exact motive remains unknown. A friend of the Soto family described the indictment as "a big win" for those seeking justice for Madeline.

The explicit images found on Sterns' Google Drive were not only graphic but also dated back to June 2019, implicating him in a long-term pattern of abuse. "The gut-wrenching discovery of these images further confirms the disturbing nature of Sterns' actions," stated a law enforcement official.

Sterns admitted to police that he had saved photos to a Google Drive account, including photos of him and Madeline. When questioned about the images, Sterns asked if he should consult a lawyer and subsequently requested an attorney, halting further questioning.

During a 43-minute police interview, Sterns provided a muddled timeline of the morning of Madeline's disappearance. He mentioned discussing breakfast plans with Madeline and forgetting their phones at home. Sterns also omitted details such as returning home to retrieve a gate clicker and getting a flat tire after dropping Madeline off at school.

Surveillance footage from Sterns' gated community showed his vehicle leaving with a "female wearing a green sweater" slumped over in the front seat. Although the footage did not explicitly identify Madeline, investigators believe she was deceased at the time.

Documents revealed details about the household dynamics, including Sterns occasionally sleeping in the same bed as Madeline. Jenn Soto, Madeline's mother, told detectives that Sterns had lived with them on and off for seven years and that it was not unusual for them to share a bed. Sterns explained that Madeline "always needed human contact when going to sleep," referring to it as "snuggling."

In a heartbreaking moment, Jenn Soto was shown a photo allegedly depicting abuse, but she did not recognize anything in it and later became visibly upset. While Jenn has not been named a suspect, officials have stated that everyone close to Madeline is considered a suspect until ruled out.

As the case against Stephan Sterns progresses, the community remains shocked and saddened by the revelations. The pre-trial hearing for Sterns' murder case is scheduled for July 10, with the trial set for July 16. The hearing for the sexual battery charges is also scheduled for July 10, with a trial date of August 19.

Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj
Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Karen Read Trial, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
20 min

About Hidden Killers Live! Daily True Crime News & Breakdowns

From the publisher's feed

Hidden Killers Live! is your daily true crime podcast delivering two hours of nonstop coverage every weekday. Hosted by Tony Brueski & Robin Dreeke this show dives into the most compelling stories in the true crime world — from murder trials and cold cases to criminal psychology, investigations, and the dark motives behind real-life crimes.