The Murder Of Maddie Soto

We discuss a recent exclusive interview by the podcast "Hidden True Crime" with Deborah and Chris Sterns, parents of Stefan Sterns who is charged with first-degree murder in the death of 13-year-old Madeline Sto.  The parents share their story publicly for the first time and discuss processing the grief and shock as details of the case come to light.  They also discuss their relationship with Stefan, both before and after he was hit by a truck as a child, and how they have chosen to move forward.  

They talk about the harassment and accusations they have faced from the public in the wake of the crime and set the record straight about their son and his childhood.  The Sterns also express their love for Madeline and sympathy for her mother, Jennifer, while acknowledging the complicated nature of their relationship with both.   Finally, Deborah and Chris discuss their commitment to Stefan and how they navigate loving a child who has committed a horrible crime.  

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.

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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, The Murder Of Sandra Birchmore, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

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

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, The Murder Of Sandra Birchmore, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

In the podcast episode of Hidden Killers With Tony Brueski, psychotherapist and author Shavaun Scott discusses the complexities surrounding Stephan Stern, who is accused of abusing Maddie Soto, and the role of his parents in his development. Scott points out that while Stern’s parents appeared pragmatic and brutally honest about their son, describing him as manipulative and troubled, they also enabled his dysfunctional lifestyle by providing financial support, such as paying his bills. She highlights the challenges of raising a child like Stern, who had special education needs and likely required more resources than the family could access. Scott also touches on the difficulty of distinguishing between helping and enabling someone who is incapable of functioning independently. In addition, the episode explores whether companies like Disney, where both Stern and Jen Soto worked, should implement more rigorous psychological testing to screen employees working with children, given the potential risks. Scott emphasizes that it would be beneficial to conduct more thorough background checks and screenings, particularly for jobs involving vulnerable populations.

- Stephan Stern’s parents openly acknowledged his manipulative behavior but enabled his lifestyle by continuing financial support.

- Stern’s developmental issues may have been exacerbated by a lack of access to appropriate resources during his upbringing.

- Scott discusses the difficulty in balancing help with enabling someone incapable of functioning as an adult.

- The conversation suggests that companies working with children, such as Disney, should adopt more stringent psychological screening for employees.

- Predators often gravitate toward environments with children, making rigorous background checks essential for safety.

#StephanStern #MaddieSoto #PsychologicalScreening #ChildSafety #HiddenKillers #ShavaunScott #EmployeeBackgroundChecks

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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, The Murder Of Sandra Birchmore, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

We're about to take a look at newly released video of Stephan Sterns, the boyfriend of Jen Soto, and a stepfather figure to Madeline Soto. This video shows the interrogation that took place before his arrest. While we've heard some audio from these interviews, this is the first time we're seeing this footage. You'll also witness the moment of Sterns’ arrest.

As the interrogation unfolds, Sterns slowly realizes his situation is dire, and the detectives are not just casually talking to him anymore—they have enough to bring charges. Watch closely as he transitions from composed to visibly concerned, knowing the jig is up.

The video captures everything from the detectives’ early rapport-building techniques, to the reading of Sterns' rights, to his moment of realization when the charges are laid out before him. You'll also see the meticulous process the police undertake while collecting evidence, which includes a DNA swab and photographs of Sterns’ body.

Stay with us as we dive deeper into this pivotal moment in the investigation.

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

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, The Murder Of Sandra Birchmore, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

In this chilling video, we dive into never-before-seen footage of Jen Soto, mother of the late Madeline Soto, as she is interrogated by police shortly after her daughter was reported missing. The intensity of the questioning reveals the high-stakes emotions and pressure placed on Jen as detectives attempt to uncover what she knew—or didn’t know—about her daughter’s fate. The interrogation paints a complex picture of denial, guilt, and suspicion, as law enforcement works tirelessly to unravel the truth behind the suspicious circumstances surrounding Madeline’s tragic death. Watch the full video for a revealing look into one of the most pivotal moments in this ongoing investigation.

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

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, The Murder Of Sandra Birchmore, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

Newly released video footage captures the intense interrogation of Jennifer Soto and Stephan Sterns by deputies investigating the disappearance of 13-year-old Madeline Soto. The footage underscores the urgency and seriousness of the investigation as law enforcement seeks to uncover the truth about the missing girl.

"Do you have any idea of where she could be?" a detective pressed Sterns, who was expected to take Madeline to school on the day she vanished. Sterns, visibly anxious, responded, "No. None at all. No."

As the interrogation unfolded, deputies revealed a critical piece of evidence: Madeline's backpack had been found in the trash. "Well, I can confidently tell you she did not go to school with her backpack," the investigator stated. Sterns, taken aback, asked, "How’s that?" The detective explained, "Because we found it in the trash. So, I’m pleading with you to dig down and do some soul-searching." 

Sterns was taken into custody, and deputies conducted a forensic examination, removing his clothing for evidence. The video shows him sitting in handcuffs, visibly shaken, before being led out.

With the pressure mounting, Sterns ultimately requested an attorney, prompting deputies to end the questioning. Shortly thereafter, he was arrested. "Do you want to know what you’re being detained for?" the detective inquired, revealing the serious charges against him: "Capital sexual battery and possession of child pornography." 

In a separate interview, Jennifer Soto expressed her emotional turmoil as she recounted the day she learned her daughter was missing. "Can I get a tissue?" she asked, her voice trembling. "At some point, I emailed one of the teachers asking if she made it to class. I checked her attendance, and she didn’t make it at all," she explained.

During her interview, deputies also questioned Soto about her awareness of any abuse Madeline may have faced. "If I knew what to tell you, I would tell you. I don’t know anything," she replied, conveying her confusion and heartache.

Currently, only Sterns has been charged in connection with Madeline's disappearance, leaving many questions unanswered for the family and the community.

 The investigation is ongoing, with Sterns scheduled to appear in court on October 14. 

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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, The Murder Of Sandra Birchmore, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

In this episode of Hidden Killers With Tony Brueski, psychotherapist and author Shavaun Scott discusses the background of Stephan Stern, accused of abusing Maddie Soto, based on an interview with his parents. The conversation explores Stern’s traumatic brain injury from being run over by a truck at a young age, which Scott believes stunted his neurodevelopment, leading to issues with impulsiveness, judgment, and manipulation. His parents describe him as never having developed into a functional adult, with a lifestyle dependent on lies and financial support from them. Scott also discusses the potential link between his immaturity and his attraction to children, highlighting that such offenders often feel inadequate around adults and are drawn to vulnerable children. While Stern knew right from wrong, Scott points out that his compulsive behavior, combined with years spent isolated and online, fueled his predatory actions. Despite understanding his troubled background, Scott stresses that none of this excuses Stern's actions, labeling him a dangerous individual who knowingly harmed Maddie and exploited his access to her through a relationship with her mother, Jen Soto.

- Stephan Stern’s neurodevelopment was likely stunted by a childhood brain injury, leading to lifelong behavioral issues.

- Stern’s parents continued financially supporting him despite recognizing his manipulative and dysfunctional behavior.

- Scott suggests Stern’s attraction to children may be tied to his emotional immaturity and inability to relate to adults.

- Despite his developmental challenges, Stern was fully aware of the wrongness of his actions.

- Stern’s predatory behavior was exacerbated by isolation and compulsive online activity, making him a danger to vulnerable individuals.

#StephanStern #MaddieSoto #ChildAbuse #TraumaticBrainInjury #Neurodevelopment #PredatoryBehavior #HiddenKillers

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

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, The Murder Of Sandra Birchmore, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

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

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, The Murder Of Sandra Birchmore, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com 

In April 2024, new evidence was released in the Madeline Soto case, specifically an interview with Jennifer Soto, Madeline's mother. The interview took place on April 18, 2024, at the state attorney’s office. This interview occurred after Madeline’s body was discovered on March 1st, 2024. At that time, while Stefan Stern had been charged with 60 counts of crimes, no one had yet been charged with Madeline's death. However, six days after Jennifer Soto’s interview, Stefan was charged with first-degree murder in Madeline's death and now faces the death penalty.

Key details from the interview indicate that Jennifer was present with her attorney due to an investigative subpoena, which compelled her to attend. She was also granted derivative use immunity, which means that while the statements made in her interview cannot be used against her in court, she could still face prosecution if other evidence of a crime is discovered. Importantly, this immunity is not total, and Jennifer could still be charged if other independent evidence arises. As of the time of the interview, Jennifer Soto had not faced any charges.

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

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, The Murder Of Sandra Birchmore, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com