Stephan Sterns, the central figure in the investigation surrounding the tragic demise of 13-year-old Madeline Soto from Kissimmee, Florida, is declining to aid authorities in their inquiry, Kissimmee Police Chief Betty Holland revealed Thursday.

Despite nearly two weeks passing without significant updates, Chief Holland provided a status update on the ongoing investigation, highlighting Sterns' lack of cooperation as a notable setback. "He has invoked his right to a lawyer, so we have not spoken with him," Chief Holland stated, addressing the media.

Sterns, aged 37 and the boyfriend of Madeline's mother, remains the solitary individual charged in connection with the case. His arrest on March 12 came after investigators uncovered distressing images and videos of child sexual abuse on his phone shortly after Madeline's disappearance, indicating a deeper layer of complexity to the tragedy.

The timeline of events leading to Madeline's demise paints a somber picture. Initially reported missing on February 26 after failing to attend school, the situation escalated when investigators declared her deceased on March 1, following the discovery of her lifeless body in a nearby wooded area.

Surveillance footage captured Sterns as the last person seen with Madeline, exacerbating suspicions surrounding his involvement. His actions, including disposing of Madeline's belongings and allegedly driving her body away under the guise of taking her to school, further compounded the gravity of the situation.

Despite Sterns' refusal to cooperate, Chief Holland assured that the investigation's progress remains undeterred. However, the delay caused by his lack of communication underscores the complexity of unraveling the truth behind Madeline's tragic fate.

While Madeline's cause of death remains undisclosed pending the medical examiner's report, Chief Holland emphasized the exhaustive nature of the ongoing investigation. "We want to make sure that we uncover every single fact and all the evidence," she reiterated, reflecting the department's unwavering commitment to justice.

When asked if anyone else was being investigated as a suspect, including Madeline’s mother, the chief said they had not ruled anything out. "Everyone that was close to Madeline is considered suspect until we have proven otherwise," Holland said. "We don’t want to put a timeline on it.” The chief said officers were still trying to determine where Madeline died and added that she would not release further details until officers were sure of the facts.

In light of the unfolding tragedy, Chief Holland urged parents to engage in conversations with their children about abuse and remain vigilant, emphasizing community support resources.

As the investigation progresses, Sterns faces a looming legal process, with a pre-trial hearing scheduled for April 24, followed by a full jury trial commencing on May 13. The community awaits further developments as authorities continue their quest for closure in Madeline's untimely demise.

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