Mom's Boyfriend Abused Daughter for YEARS | Madeline Soto Case

Madeline Soto was last seen on February 26th, 2024. Her body was found five days later in a wooded area less than an hour from home and her mother's boyfriend was arrested. Stephan Sterns's phone revealed disgusting evidence of what he has been doing to Madeline since she was at least 8 years old. Let's discuss all the updates.
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If you have any information/tips to help find Madeline, please contact the Orange County Sheriff's Office at 407-254-7000, or call 1-800-423-TIPS (8477) or call 911.
Case Playlist: • Madeline Soto
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Disclaimer: All Grizzly True Crime content is for adults only and may contain themes that some individuals find triggering, offensive or disturbing.
Viewer discretion is advised. This Video is protected under copyright laws. The views and opinions expressed in this video are personal and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any other agency, organization, employer, or company. Assumptions made in the analysis are not reflective of the position of any entity other than the creator(s). These views are subject to change, revision, and rethinking at any time and are not to be held in perpetuity. All information is provided on an as-is basis. It is the reader’s responsibility to verify their own facts. Sources used to collect this information include various public media/news sites, interviews, social media accounts, and court documents.
Stay Safe!
Gisela K.
#madelinesoto #stephansterns #florida #missing #grizzlytruecrime #truecrime

[@debbie5876]

As a 30 year law enforcement detective, I investigated a complicated case similar to this case, and the investigation took at least two years, which ended up in a guilty verdict for the father and mother, with over 100 years for one and 63 years for the other. It is best to have the case just about ready to go to trial before making the arrest, if possible. The defendant has the right to ask for a speedy trial, and if the prosecution is not ready and the defendant is found not guilty, it is over and can never be addressed again. It's important for the public to be patient and know that law enforcement is investigating and will make the arrest when the district attorney believes there is enough evidence for a conviction

[@anniezion]

Although you are totally right, in this case they have all that material on his phone. Couldn't be more waterproof. Now that doesn't mean they are prepared & ready for murder trial, but if he wants a speedy trial, it will be for the things on his phone, and he will probably get life for that alone. And by the time that one is finished, they WILL be 100% ready for a murder trial. They have the body, which in some cases are never even found.

[@KL-ou9jj]

Since he is in jail they can take their time!

[@wendyc1902]

​​@@anniezion I would assume that if he's already a convicted felon, then the murder will be even more a slam dunk as far as sentencing. I'm trying to justify in my head their reasoning for this case going to trial less than 120 days from offense. It's just unheard of. I'm not complaining. It's just weird

[@lovewins7412]

For a seasoned detective like yourself, you should definitely know that there’s enough evidence to convict the mom’s boyfriend.

[@lovewins7412]

There’s video evidence showing Maddie with him, after she was already dead, what more could you need to go with all of the photos??

[@Leonicles]

I haven't dated in the 10 years since my husband died when I was 26 (our daughter was 2) I know that the greatest risk to a child is a non-related man in the home. Mothers seem to rarely see this coming, so why would I be different? Something bad happened to me & IT WILL NEVER happen in MY HOME. The suffering this child went through since EIGHT is unimaginable.

[@Charmander009]

Don’t be paranoid , lot of good men out there

[@kadunc5738]

@@Charmander009where? 👀

[@dihe1392]

​@@Charmander009let her be paranoid. Better safe than sorry. Partners are replaceable but the innocence of your child isn't

[@1962Melody]

I dated when my Daughter was young but I never brought anyone to my house! I had a Step Daughter that went through something like this! I was not going to put my child in any kind of danger of this.

[@oOIIIMIIIOo]

The most dangerous molesting people around children are grandfathers, uncles, brothers, cousins and fathers.

[@joyames9236]

This poor baby had such a horrible life, my heart just breaks

[@audreydaleski1067]

I know. Degrading. Humiliating. Worried what her friends would think. How did she sit through school all day. Don't teachers teach about this these days? Ho to counselor and say I'm a victim.

[@marchelleceryes398]

It breaks my heart horrible mom

[@anniezion]

Just awful, completely devastating. This little girl was strong, going to school and functioning after what she was put through by that monster. When looking at the timeline of the dates they found evidence of abuse on his phone, (btw what a complete idiot saying he "accidently did a recovery on the phone..) the dates are all during summer break.. when she should have had a fun time with her friends...I feel discusted and this monster does not deserve being called a man or a human. May he rot in prison.

[@starflower703]

@@audreydaleski1067I was volunteering at my son’s elementary school (kindergarten) when a little girl felt safe enough to tell me someone was kissing her private parts. I changed the subject, because we were sitting with other children. Later, I had a private conversation with her. There is no doubt she was being abused. I reported it to the school, who is a mandatory reporter; but they said she was repeating something her older sisters said in her presence. I didn’t care where it came from, it wasn’t appropriate for a 5 year old girl to even know about, much less tell me. Sadly, the school refused to take it seriously and I didn’t have enough information about the child to get CPS to do anything. To this day I pray for that that girl, who is 17 now.

[@RedRubyFarm]

Yes it is heartbreaking!💔

[@jelinaross4131]

I am a survivor of SA and physical ! My heart goes out to Mattie so sad she didn’t have the chance to get help I’m 71 years old and I still have problems from that thank you for your channel I love it here The way you present yourself, and the cases you deliver is wholesome thank you , RIP Mattie 🌸💐💜

[@GrizzlyTrueCrime]

Maddie for Madeline ❤️ Sorry for what you have endured. Thank you for being here

[@Skysunset111]

A big hug for that little you. God will do his part. Whoever hurt you can sure them stay in hell. God bless your way and all this innocent children.

[@Karrie732]

Your 1st job as a mom is to always PROTECT your child hands down! This guy is a monster 👿 he needs to be locked🔒up forever.

[@stacyjaye6350]

Her also

[@LaPinturaBella]

And forgotten by everyone. Let him learn what an insignificant POS he truly is.

[@paulathepoodlelover]

FL Attorney General Ashley Moody has assigned herself to this case and this monster will fry in FL's electric chair, "Old Sparky." It's just a matter of time and HE knows it. I don't think mom has sense enough to KNOW anything. I'm immediately turned off by the mother's saucer eyes (drug use indicator), her failure to speak in sentences, her failure to use the murdered child's name - only calls her "she," plus mother constantly looking down or cutting her eyes to the monster sitting behind her cracking his knuckles (which is threatening behavior from him and submissive behavior from mother); her 'deer in the headlights' look (an indication of fear and extreme fear depending upon how wide the eyes get - how much white is showing around the pupil). Neither the mother nor the monster call the murdered child by name. Maybe they called her something else at home, something that they can't say on national TV? Who knows? Stranger things have happened than a mother selling a child for sex. It happens all the time in the USA and around the world. Sad but true. As a country we don't want to see it and we don't want to believe it... similar to this 'blind' mother.

[@Messpinoza80]

💯

[@suzaneejohnson2191]

Idc what anyone says! This mothers behavior is Fear! I’ve been in a DV situation and this mother was being abused mentally, physically & emotionally! This will all come out. Sounds to be the mom was working Overnight and he was caring after the daughter! I feel that precious baby knew the abuse the mom and her went through. This breaks my heart. If it comes out this is not what was going on then the mom needs changed as well! My friend is a DV advocate, and she senses the same thing, the mom was being abused as well. He’s definitely A monster & shouldn’t ever be allowed to see the streets again

[@Dorothy4Jesus]

THE MOTHER NEEDS TO BE IN JAIL W/HIM!!

[@ibike825]

💯!!!

[@gillmiller3702]

The US has legal systems in place. A kangaroo court is not one of them. I’m not saying the mum is innocent but proof is needed.

[@user-qj7bi1vz7y]

Agreed

[@martinakuhnert9636]

Exactly!

[@Messpinoza80]

Yep! Time to hold these so called parents accountable!!

[@fifilafleur5555]

I will never EVER understand how a mother OR father can choose a predatory partner over their child. It makes me absolutely sick!!!!! Such selfishness and disregard for their precious child. Simply heartbreaking…

[@AnaN-iz5ql]

Did the mom know 💯 ! Pls let me know!

[@FeliciaAndres]

You are so right.

[@losslessthoughts]

@@AnaN-iz5ql They say a mother ALWAYS knows! It is whether or not they actually want to acknowledge it or just go into ignorant/denial mode.

[@gillmiller3702]

@@losslessthoughtsthat isn’t true though.

[@unav1227]

Did she know? I can absolutely guarantee you I have the best mother in the world. And we just had a conversation this last weekend, that she had no idea what was going on, while she was waiting outside when I was having my music class. When I was 10-ish, I'm now in my 40"s and I told my mom a year or so ago what was happening and she was blown away, she never even suspected. Was Madeline's mom clueless....I'm going for no, but there is always the chance that she is or was......

[@Char_43]

The only comforting news is that creep will NEVER get out of prison even without a murder charge 😡

[@melisawith1s640]

This Monster is beyond evil. I think this case is way bigger than we know.

[@ASB412]

This little girl went through things we will never know. My heart breaks for her. There is no punishment appropriate for that POS monster. Thanks G.

[@diamonddriver9235]

Yeah my question is did not anyone in the entire family see this coming or happening was everybody like on glue throughout this or were they being paid off no matter what the mom needs to go down it doesn’t go on for five years and no one see what’s happening you can’t even tell me that she traded her daughter for a few romps in the bed with this freak

[@kellyschultz485]

The Death Penalty would be an entirely appropriate punishment, and I am not usually a supporter of it.

[@pikachu7572]

Her friends more distraught than the mom

[@annmoore8696]

Maybe because she's in Denial! So Sick Of a Mother Not To Believe Her Own Child 😢 We are going to find out that this Case Is Deeper Than We Know 😭 ⚖️

[@smartasspatriot445]

Her friends at school so well spoken in their thoughts and feelings for her. The adults around her= none worth a damn

[@tammyhotchkiss9165]

​@annmoore869I think you're right❣️ A lot deeper

[@annmoore8696]

@@tammyhotchkiss9165 I suffer from PTSD and I have a special Heart for lLittle Children that are assaulted ❗ Sorry about what happened to This Little Baby Girl

[@kweenz109]

@@smartasspatriot445right? Those precious kiddos showed more emotion than her "mother". I see charges coming for her. There's no way she didn't know.

[@jordanziegra7624]

Mom needs to be arrested. I predict she will be.

[@rlnstn9300]

Maybe she'll testify against him for immunity for anything she may have been aware of but didn't report.

[@taramay8174]

She knew for sure. And chose too ignore it

[@SophiaTheSophist]

i'm beginning to wonder if her mom was part of what happened. either complicit or by allowing it. and she knew he killed her. she knew. and she had no love for daughter in those interviews. she even smiles at times. i would be hysterical. she had no emotions at all.

[@stevestevenson289]

​@OctaviaOG she cld have known and blackmailed sterns to do it.. for all we know

[@emilykate_uk1]

That poor little girl. What she went through at the hands of that monster breaks my heart 💔

[@Jess-bee]

And there are so many more out there 😭 why are men like this?

[@kaypower2311]

I disagree that the hatred should be directed solely at him. Yes, he’s a disgusting and vile pos. But her Mother was directly responsible for her safety, care, and wellbeing! Her Mother ALLOWED this horrible monster to get to her. Her Mother is 100% responsible for allowing this to happen to her child. I look at the mother and it makes me cringe. I hope she faces the same fate that he does. She’s just as guilty if not more.

[@sarahjane8949]

💯💯💯💯💯💯💯💯

[@deannalassiter2088]

I AGREE. If You All really want justice...then this MOTHER should pay. Her comforting him is really the last straw, honest to God, she's guilty 😢

[@seeitwithme1412]

I am not victim blaming (mother) but when you have daughters.....you just don't leave a strange man live in your house. Just be boyfriend and girlfriend but don't bring a preadator near your children.

[@julieboice180]

Many times you find out you really don't know a person..... Predators are good at their ways out they wouldn't get away with it the first time

[@CynthiaOats]

The mother knew. She was this baby protector. She will be judged for her part in this

[@valleygirl2530]

On the contrary you ARE here blaming Jennifer for having a relationship with Sterns and letting him into her home. Is there any evidence that Mom abused her daughter or contributed to his crimes?

[@kellylofton8748]

He had no prior charges and they had been dating for years, far from a stranger?

[@tammyhotchkiss9165]

​@kellylofton8748 He started the SA crap from the beginning of Jennifer and monster's relationship! Did you see the dates, they were when Maddie was only 8 yrs. old! And that's only from what they have found on his phone. It could have started the Day he met poor little Maddie😢🙏🤟

[@madreep]

I'm from Portland, Oregon and after Kyron Horman went missing our entire schools changed where parents could only enter through the office, and schools notified parents at 10 am if their kids were absent. Middle schools and Elementary schools only.

[@tammyhotchkiss9165]

I remember little Kyron😢to ALL the children who've been harmed,Rest in paradise little ones🙏💔🥺

[@annmoore8696]

And They Never Found Him ❓ I still think it was the Step Mother ⚖️ 💔 😥 🙏

[@kellyschultz485]

I have been following this case for years. I still think the Stepmother was involved. I truly hope they find him someday.

[@madreep]

@@kellyschultz485 I'm positive that Terri had something to do with it as well.

[@lauriescott4091]

I'd be in jail for murder.

[@imjustagirl]

Oh yeah, police wouldn’t have to worry about arrested this pervert, I’d already take matters into my own hands.

[@sherbetlemons]

Yeh if that this was my daughter, same.

[@kellyschultz485]

Me too.

[@jrussell243]

I was a single mom in Florida beginning in the late 90s. There were true horror stories (ie Caylee Anthony, Jessica Lunsford) all over the media. I basically decided having a boyfriend or spouse was the last thing I needed…I did need to protect my child.

[@bonnylouwho76]

I wish I had NEVER REMARRIED during the 90s. I did get rid of the men before anything happened to my children. I just wish I hadn't wasted so much of my precious energy and health and time on them.

[@stevestevenson289]

These guys are such a tiny percentage of the whole population of men but women's choices...

[@gillmiller3702]

An interesting view is that he was only attracted to girls of a certain age and once Maddie was maturing he was no longer interested. He was worried she might talk.

[@stacey7529]

This was my thought from the beginning as well.

[@ajordan1976]

13 is a very pivotal age. She was probably finding her voice. Becoming more outspoken and has her own mind I'm sure. Instead of a subservient child. It scared him.

[@stevebutler812]

All predators have a target prey. It’s not random. That said, being a victim can be random. This was NOT random.

[@kellyschultz485]

Motive: she might have started refusing him, she may have been pregnant, she may have threatened to tell.

[@seabellz]

My brother was murdered in 1992. His killer was indicted in less than a year, but he never went to trial. His case was dismissed without prejudice. I don’t know why. He was 17. I was 14. I’m 46 now and in touch with the solicitor to re-open. Thank you for for covering this. It’s truly heartbreaking.

[@debsibson7071]

❤❤

[@denise8791]

Wishing you all the best. Sorry to hear you lost your brother and I hope you are able to get justice. ❤

[@marshapieroni6677]

I hope you can eventually get justice for your brother.

[@urmammy84]

I’ll say a special prayer for you tonight that all goes well. 🙏 ❤

[@seabellz]

That means a lot to me. Thank you 🙏 ❤

[@karenkennedy6331]

Even animals protect their young to death from predators. Something went wrong in this family.

[@LaPlaztique]

Animals seem to be better than humans in so many ways!

[@henmaidstale]

I love how animals like elephants will group together to protect the babies.

[@oOIIIMIIIOo]

There are animals who kill their offspring for some reasons and there is incest, too. I mean...

[@blackwidor]

I've seen animals eat their young 🤷‍♂️

[@LaPlaztique]

@@blackwidor That’s mostly because they have a built in sickness detector, so to speak. I’m not a Veterinarian or Wildlife Biologist but I do have a Veterinarian in my family. I’m not sitting here pretending that I know everything though.

[@jasestrickland1704]

“Bestiality” means $3Xual activity involving animals. How perverted and revolting. This poor child needed someone and there was no one to protect her. Her mother has a lot to answer for.

[@Charmander009]

I think the report said he did one or more of the listed 10 things , not every thing , I seriously doubt this guy is interested in zebras 😂

[@kadunc5738]

@@Charmander009 you never know! 🦓

[@chartmann43]

Yeah, that got me thinking.🤔

[@1962Melody]

I think that was downloaded CP not. Something he made.

[@sandilou2U]

Not necessarily. Beastiality is grouped with other sex offenses under the criminal code but not all of the offenses listed need to have been committed for a person to be charged with violating that code.

[@kellyegan9824]

He’ll never get out of prison with the charges he has now. Once they get him with murder, they’ll go for the dp

[@KL-ou9jj]

He will get life: can’t get DP because it was just passed in 2023 … so the experts say! Pray they don’t go for it … like with Casey Anthony. DP or nothing and she walked! Hopefully they learned something from that! Because you never know how that jury will view the facts! PLUS DP easy way out! Can you imagine his life in prison after what he did?

[@Thatonegirl72]

@@KL-ou9jj doesn’t fl have the death penalty for murder? The op didn’t state they would go for the dp over his current charges

[@gillmiller3702]

@@KL-ou9jj he could get the death penalty for murder though

[@paulathepoodlelover]

He's already charged with capital sexual abuse of a child under 12 - that comes with the judicial option of the death penalty. When the charge includes the word "capital" it means that the death penalty can be an appropriate punishment.

[@paulathepoodlelover]

@@gillmiller3702 According to Florida Statute 794.11, anyone 18 years of age or older who commits sexual battery against a person 12 years of age or younger, or who injures the sexual organs of a child under the age of 12 by attempting to commit sexual battery, is guilty of capital sexual battery. If convicted of capital sexual battery in the State of Florida, the sentence ranges from life imprisonment without parole to death by electrocution or lethal injection.

[@audreydaleski1067]

Schools need to teach what inappropriate contact is and make it as easy as possible for an abused child to tell a counsellor.

[@LaPlaztique]

My daughter’s did way back when she was in elementary school. But prior to that, I did. Because I was that child with a stepfather.

[@BriLovesKirra]

@@LaPlaztiqueI’m sorry you had to go through that as a child, but it makes me happy to hear you say you’re being proactive to now protect your own child. 💗

[@LaPlaztique]

@@BriLovesKirra Thank you, for your kindness. I had years of therapy. My daughter is now a 22 year old young lady that just graduated from University last year. She now works for our local District Attorney’s Office in Criminal Forensics. When I became a mother myself, I wasn’t prepared for the trauma to return again as it made me resent my mother even more than before because she knew and didn’t protect me. I have forgiven her however, I am distanced from her for my own peace and well-being.

[@tammyhotchkiss9165]

​@@LaPlaztiqueI had a stepdad that was absolutely wonderful. Please don't put all of them in the same box. I realize that there's a lot who aren't but there's also a lot that are truly "real" Father's. Mine being one of them for 59 years of my life. I'm 64 now and he's still the best🤗🙏💔I miss him. He passed in 2017🥺💔

[@tammyhotchkiss9165]

I'm sorry you had one of the other ones @LaPlaztique no one deserves this‼️🙏🥺

[@auzziemel8983]

This one is a triggering case for me. 1. I'm a single mum of a son. 2. I was SA at 12yrs by my step dad. Thank you Gisela for being so empathetic and respectful. I'm very single. No plans for partnership until my son is much older. It's sad because he wants a dad. He is 9, so this one hit hard!

[@vixtex]

God bless you and your son💕

[@auzziemel8983]

@@vixtex thank you 😊

[@janedixon8491]

I’m sorry to hear that for you.

[@ducky4u16]

❤❤❤

[@stevebutler812]

Put your kid on a sports team, in gymnastics or some activity you can observe where he gets “mentors” and role model. College for kids? Good luck

[@melsafken764]

G, he didn't work directly for Disney (as in they cut his paycheck). He worked for a "sub contractor" who was contracted to work at Disney. This is a corporate tactic, so as to avoid accountability. Another example; Amazon doesn't hire their own drivers anymore. They are supplied by other company(s).

[@annmoore8696]

Thank you For Sharing This Information 💔

[@lorabell3553]

He also didn't work there that long. Like I said he was a bum.

[@Sochi314]

Just so you know, contractors don't remove accountability the way you may believe. He would still have whatever clearance/access like their employees. I am saying this as someone responsible for hiring both contracted and permanent employees.

[@annmoore8696]

@@Sochi314 Thank you 💔

[@valleygirl2530]

Funny you should compare him to Amazon drivers. Those drivers are wild cards with no accountability to Amazon Customer Service. I’ve had delivery issues for years - often they contract with the local postal service who’s hired yokels off the street. Get a paid for Mailbox service.

[@TeaWildflowers]

Thank you G for covering this devastating case with such sensitivity and grace. Madeline deserves nothing less than our respect. I am so sorry for the horror she experienced in her young life. May this be a wake-up call to all of us to be more aware, vigilant, and ready to stand up for children who are living in a nightmare. Rest in peace Madeline. 🌸💜

[@teribelleau137]

I'm even more convinced her mother knew everything!

[@gillmiller3702]

Abuse can take place with another person in the building or even asleep in the same bed.

[@trishab6220]

Not at this level! You would have to be brain dead to not notice!@@gillmiller3702

[@wendyc1902]

You have to remember these predators are very good at what they do! We know this because of how long they do it before getting caught. I have a different perspective on mom, because I try to give the benefit of doubt. Not being disrespectful, but in the interviews she doesn't seem like a very bright bulb. I believe it's very possible she is realizing in real time during those interviews as she's talking it out, that the only thing that makes sense is "could it be him" then struggling with denial is a real thing.

[@teribelleau137]

@@wendyc1902 I thought that too, at first. With the new information though, I can't believe anyone is that dim... unless she works all the time, then maybe he could fool her, or hide it. But for 5 years?

[@gillmiller3702]

@@teribelleau137 unfortunately abuse can go on for years.

[@tootsingtonfabulucy1050]

Thank you for pointing out that Madeleine was a traumatised child therefore only had a few friends at party. This understanding is important in understanding and reinforcing the communities understanding of the signals of trauma. Its important for people to identify trauma and not be afraid to ask questions. This can if fact act as a protection and is not being intrusive or nosy. Thanks G.

[@ktCanadiansos]

There is no way in Hell, her mother did not know or was directly involved! Horrific ✌️❤️🇨🇦

[@theorphan9700]

She knew, mother always knows. She just didn't act on it

[@julieboice180]

Unless the predator has such control that the victim feels guilty and won't tell

[@gillmiller3702]

@@theorphan9700 unfortunately that is not true. s a can happen for years without someone knowing about it.

[@valleygirl2530]

Wrong. There are ways in hell she wasn’t aware of that abuse. She did have misplaced trust in the POS from Hell but he targeted her as well as her child. He knew Mom could easily be tricked and manipulated. All of you Holier than Thou commenters are ganging up on a distraught mother who seems clueless. Stop it.

[@rebeccaswift7588]

I had no idea that my exhusband and bio dad of my two daughters was SA them. Apparently, they were ages one and 4 yrs when it began (from my oldest daughters memory) my oldest daughter was having behavioral problems when she was 7 yrs old, just 3 yrs after I divorced her father. The psychologist suggested her behavior sounds like SA. At home, I asked her a barrage of questions asking if anyone had touched her privates. She said, "daddy" did!..I was shocked!!..she told me what he had done to her baby sister too!..crying, I called police immediately!.. Not only did my daughter go to therapy, so did I. I blamed myself, beat myself up and hated myself for not knowing. Even looking back there were no indications, none!..I became a helicopter mom for sure. Nobody babysat my girls outside of my female family..when I began dating, I didn't allow any man to come to my house, I met them where ever we were going for the date..I did remarry but we dated for 6 months before I allowed him to meet my girls. The meeting was staged. I took them to the mall to shop and coincidentally we ran into him there so I introduced them. Still he wasn't allowed over to my house. He knew why and was very patient and understanding..so, not all moms are aware of their kids being SA..some turn their heads and others just don't believe their kids..its so sad..😢

[@bean6157]

Who was there to protect Maddie? No one. So so so angry and sad

[@melsafken764]

So he had 400 photos of his abuse against Madeline on his phone. 🤢🤮😡🤬

[@sandilou2U]

They were not all Madeline. We do not know who the other children are. We also do not know if he took the images or if he obtained them from someone else.

[@kristy2522]

Disgusting

[@Brandi.AlicexX]

@@sandilou2U they matched a pink marking on the shaft of his pen!s that matched the videos/photos. Between where her body was found and her home a father and son (who k!lled himself coward) got busted for selling CP. Then David Solomon (trafficked who worked in sound of freedom movie) called into TReV 757 and stated about the ring Stephan was a part of “allegedly “ but David is legit. It’s deep deep.

[@tabos3522]

​@@sandilou2Uhow do you know All the photos aren't of Madeline? I haven't heard these are of any other child. I may have missed something?

[@loushyraholiday3413]

@@tabos3522police said they found images and videos of other children, as young as 5 years old, girls and boys included... sadly madeleine wasn't the only one

[@socalangel08]

😡This is so sickening , make my stomach turn , poor little girl what she had to endure, breaks my heart 😢

[@ggbice]

We Floridians are getting lots of info on this case. Mom, is awol. This guy is the WORST type of preditor.

[@lynnstanton7018]

She has gone into a treatment facility, thats where shes at now

[@AngelaMossow]

A drug treatment facility?

[@lynnstanton7018]

@@AngelaMossow no mental facility

[@mariatorres9789]

​@@lynnstanton7018Tnx for update.

[@mariatorres9789]

Thanks to DeSantis, the next guy arrested for crimes like this, will face DP.

[@deniseeugene1852]

As former CPS in New York City . I am shocked that this was a secret for two years. Maddie didn’t confide in anyone. Additionally it appears as if Stephan was left alone with Maddie often while mom worked nights. Pics of Maddie at her 13th birthday the day before her death. She appears pregnant. Like in the first trimester .

[@jacobienbil3798]

Thats also what i thought. Netherlands

[@Lilith_Hypatia]

I think the reason it was a secret is because mom is involved. He has actually been abusing this child since she was 8 and very brutally at that, so that’s nearly 5 years. The mother didn’t once see her child’s underwear after the assaults? Her child’s body? This woman knew and she will be going to prison to.

[@deniseeugene1852]

@@Lilith_Hypatia The pics in the phone go back to 2022. When Maddie was eleven years old. I think Stephan had opportunity and Maddie somehow was seduced into making these images . If you look up lascivious. That word is used often in the new 60 count indictment. Images of him grooming and seducing Maddie

[@julieboice180]

​@@Lilith_Hypatiain this case.... There's no way she didn't know something was wrong

[@__-fl3yt]

It was a secret because Madeline was groomed at a really young age, her situation was normal for her, probably she just realized something was weird or was pregnant that is why they killed her.

[@karenkennedy6331]

I do not think this was a planned murder, something got out of hand, he was going to be accused, she was pregnant, she was not going to do this anymore., .

[@trishloiacono8524]

She suffered in silence for so long so sad. He needs to go to jail court as soon as he arrives at goal

[@CharlieP456]

The mum knows far more than she is saying....shame on her

[@alabaster193]

I feel bad for my mother because she fell apart after she and my father separated but...She never dated. No man came into my home. At 13, I was riding my bike and walking my dog to the park. That's how every child should live....Carefree. When I left my ex 20 years ago, I dated but no man ever came into my kid's home. Not once. Every child's home should be a safe place. My heart is broken for Madeline. She had everything taken away from her and suffered so much. This monster was enabled by the mother. Keep your social life out of the house. I could look at this guy Sterns and smell creep right through the screen immediately. He's beyond sick and his parents enabled him. They should go to jail because they knew he had child p0rn in his computer years ago and did nothing.

[@tammyhotchkiss9165]

I guess Stearns mom is another story. 🙏🤟

[@bonnylouwho76]

If I had my life to live over, I would NEVER have dated or remarried during the 90's. My children were not harmed in any physical or sexual manner, I am too much of a Mama Bear. I just wish that I had no trusted them to be good men when they weren't

[@melissagregory5100]

This case has came to light of all of the disturbing problems in the world!!

[@trishab6220]

Thats how I feel.

[@wendyc1902]

Look at the latest Grady Judd sting operation

[@selzasteve837]

Ive been single for 12 years. No way I would put my children in danger. Sorry, but parents need to take responsibility for their own choices. Also don’t let children go to sleepovers till they are much older and can speak up and speak for themselves. Not 5 but teenagers. My heart breaks for all the children who are being abused and if you are reading this, you need to tell someone you can trust. You did nothing wrong and you deserve to be safe. It’s hard, but as someone who knows, it’s the first word that is the first second to change in your life. Love ❤️

[@bonnylouwho76]

Frankly, unless you can BE THERE YOURSELF RIGHT ON TOP of the KIDS IN A SLEEP OVER-NEVER HAVE THEM. NOT EVER! Teen-age girls can pull some pretty evil things on a girl their same age that is sweet and naive. I know of what I speak.

[@annmoore8696]

I don't Trust anything The Mother Saids 😢💔⚖️

[@Jenjen2021]

She’s been lying from the beginning to protect the pedo, no kind trusts her

[@paulathepoodlelover]

Maddie was last seen actually wearing a dress at her birthday party at her grandmother's house. There are photos of her wearing the dress. The police obviously discounted the biological mother's lies. This is why the Sheriff she was dressed as described -- he didn't want to give away that she was still wearing the dress at that time. Manner of death, clothing, etc. will come out at murder trial of this matter.

[@taramay8174]

Yeh this is the last mention of her being seen . At the grandmothers

[@karenbragg3428]

Where is the bday video/and or pics of it? So it took place at Gmas place? i wonder if he drove her over to gmas for the party "he" attended. I think Gma knows more as well. Do any of family members on moms side have fb pages? If so can u post links plzzz thank u

[@paulathepoodlelover]

@@karenbragg3428 There have been several photos of the murdered child on the "Net standing in front of blue metallic background. Maternal grandmother said in an interview that murderer "attended the party." Both aunt and grandmother said 'this was all news to them' or something to that effect but if there has been generational sexual abuse, their reactions are gonna be as screwed up as the mother's reaction. My gut tells me that the mother knew he was banging her child and she was jealous. She's not Miss America. Father of child didn't marry her. So mother has a lot of baggage in addition to drug use (whether prescribed or not is still drug abuse when the drugs are taken differently than prescribed as mother's friend stated).

[@LauraWoodhams]

This one is absolutely 💯 horrifying 😢👀

[@CheekyOneinBris]

Several years ago i moved to Orange county in Orlando, i'd put my kids in achool and one day my son was sick and I forgot to call and let the school know. The next day he was still sick and I called and apologized for forgetting to call the day before.Then I said I was suprised that they hadn't never called me, the lady replied that they don't do that. I'd come from another state that called within an hour so I was shocked and I remember saying so, you're telling me if for some reason my son didn't make it to school, that I wouldn't even be aware until after school ended? She said that's just our policy. I went on a bit saying that all those hours could mean life or death and I was met with silence. It's sad that it's taken so many years a poor Madeline's death to make a change in this terrible school system here but I hope it will help. My younger kids are in the school sytem here now and that policy has always caused me so much anxiety.

[@MoniSoSweet]

Our schools here in Texas don't call until 5pm unfortunately 😞

[@madic502]

I know it’s not much but both my girls have Apple AirTags on them anytime they leave our house, including when I drop them off at school. As long as someone with their Bluetooth on is within a good distance they ping great. It realllllllyyyy helped ease my anxiety when my 1st grader attended her first parent-less field trip last week😅 When I can afford it, I’m def going to buy the legit trackers that don’t have to rely on other things like Bluetooth. They’re more expensive & most of them you have to buy a monthly subscription for the gps to work….of course🙄

[@stevebutler812]

Thx. In CA we call. So, I assumed. Thx.

[@Mikelvl3]

this is one of the most disturbing cases ive heard of in sometime

[@NutsNBerries]

Indeed

[@terrysmith907]

When they asked this dude about his drive taking her to school, he Said she was mostly sleeping. Bull shit

[@donnajjess7963]

She was passed at that time ,L.E. says

[@Charmander009]

@@donnajjess7963le said they THINK. How do they know for sure , she could be sleeping or drugged up

[@donnajjess7963]

@Piplup20 Maybe by autopsy ,they would no time if death.Makes sense to me.

[@rebeccaswift7588]

Yea it is bull. He was driving with her deceased in his car. It's on video..

[@tammyhotchkiss9165]

​@@Charmander009Do you think he killed her after he threw away the backpack and laptop in the dumpster?🥺

[@sherrimanerva]

Just caught part of this live. All respect to you. Maddie is not suffering now. God bless her🙏

[@joeymatthysen5105]

I still believe she knows something!!! And I still have the feeling she was pregnant.

[@Charmander009]

Ur feelings don’t matter in court

[@oOIIIMIIIOo]

​@@Charmander009We are not at court here.

[@cassandralefavi219]

Prison justice 🤬

[@Charmander009]

He’s in solitary last I heard

[@59lizzz]

NoPREA Act is gonna keep him safe in prison.

[@tammyhotchkiss9165]

He can't stay in protective custody/isolation forever... or can he⁉️

[@shantibel]

This little girl suffered horrors before her end - so tragic. R.i.P.❤

[@noserialkiller3596]

I honestly believe Stephan is very sad that Madeline is dead because he can't abuse her anymore. No Serial Killer.

[@rlnstn9300]

I do think he killed her because she was pregnant. He would've been found out eventually one way or the other.

[@dianealarcon8304]

She likely said she was going to expose him, and he flipped out. It must have happened at home, before he tossed her computer/ backpack near 7:30. He pretended to drive her to school. It is a God-wink he was seen near the woods changing a flat tire. 🙏🏻⚖️🪦☮️

[@diamonddriver9235]

Yes I have to agree with you he looks very sad which makes it seem like possibly the mother did it in a jealous rage it’s odd that the mother is not totally devastated about this murder nor is the grandmother very very strange I can’t wait till forensic files checks the body for the DNA etc. this is the most sickening story I’ve heard in a long time Any of the adults that knew about this and did nothing about it need to be locked up also

[@kellyschultz485]

@@rlnstn9300this is entirely a good possibility. That would definitely go to Motive.

[@kellyschultz485]

@@dianealarcon8304absolutely.

[@user-qj7bi1vz7y]

… and the mom didn’t know a thing… that’s BULL SHYTE… she needs to be arrested and charged along with that sicko She brought into the home…. Very disturbing

[@vikkivale4979]

Pos mother's like this are worse than the pos man that they protect over their own . Damn shame

[@jojobaja]

I think moms and dads need to have a talk with their young children.

[@Brosnan-D007]

I find it hard to believe after years of this terrible man living with Jennifer, that she didnt know this was happening to her child. 🤔 This is an eye opener to women who bring strange men into your life and home. 😱

[@Mcoogie]

I know Ms.G is super busy dealing with so many cases at once. Don't know how she does it!

[@sweetsongstress7398]

Oh my gosh the young man discussing justice for Madeline! Heart wrenching clip, poor girl!💔

[@karenweston2714]

I know, I need to take a walk outside. So many bad parents. How can you not protect and take care of your child? No man is worth your child!

[@AliceWanderland_]

This is absolutely horrifying and heartbreaking!!!! It is too much. Thank you for putting on your emotional shield and reminding us to do the same… only for the purpose of education and saving someone in the future.

[@CarmenPerez-kz6rw]

She never saw a doctor?? Wtf is going on?? This is effing insane!

[@NutsNBerries]

I knew she wasn’t taking her to the doctor because they check for signs of abuse and sexual abuse

[@ceciliale5276]

What a beautiful girl Madeline was. Such pretty eyes and hair, adorable smile. This story hurts so much! How could anyone ever hurt such a beautiful little child 😭

[@jenniferbailey5914]

The best thing about your Chanel is the tribute to the victims. I appreciate they are never forgotten. So many Chanel’s are all about the perpetrator and not the innocent victim. RIP Madeline. 💔

[@FreedomMatters22]

Even her schoolmates are experiencing trauma ( maybe life-long)at the hands of this monster. 😢

[@CharlieP456]

I work in a school...we call parents within 30 mins about an absence if we dont know why a child isn't in school...I'm in the UK

[@kellyegan9824]

I’m in Boston US. It’s the same

[@trishab6220]

Umm yes your in the UK, totally different.

[@vanessao7323]

Yes and we were talking about the difference around the world.

[@queenelizabeth8191]

I'm in the U.S. and its the same where I live, I don't understand these districts that call parents at night, what is even the point in that? My childs school calls and emails within the hour of attendance being taken.

[@stacey7529]

In Australia the parents have to call in to say your child will be away.

[@wildmountainthyme4123]

This poor young girl. My heart breaks for her. Thank you so much Gisela, for giving us these updates. I can only imagine how difficult it was for you. May there be justice for Madeline and may it be swift.

[@marlaalbert7906]

Thank you for providing this horrific material in a sensitive way. 🙏🏻

[@lisajeter9511]

Moms should never allow a non parent to stay in the house unsupervised with their child. Especially overnight all night long

[@cade61405]

That was so rough😢 Gisela, thank you as always for your compassion and candor!

[@Jamcrackerr]

You, G, were born for this. The care, compassion, and sympathy for the victims, their survivors, and loved ones goes above AND beyond. It comes as NO SURPRISE to me that you have rocketed toward the top of this difficult genre, known as "true crime" here on the streets of YT. I stumbled upon your channel during the Gabby case and recognized that "something" you inhabit that sets you apart from the rest. It has been a joy watching you grow in every way. I have many more compliments, but I think you get my drift. You're the "cats meow", the "bees knees," G. And many, many people love you for who you are. Don't stop and never change.❤ (i was fka, Jamie)

[@GrizzlyTrueCrime]

Thank you so much ❤️❤️❤️

[@karenkennedy6331]

As a teacher I always took attendance at the very beginning of the day, who was late and absent! Sent to office right away, now online for sure. It’s not helpful to know at end of day, esp. for parents,

[@debjohns_ton3170]

We had it twice in my school and this was back in the day. Morning registration and then again after lunch?

[@unav1227]

I have been staring at my screen for the last half hour after this video, so many things to say, not enough words, so many feelings, not enough tears. Sadly, in one way, Maddie was just another girl that was SA'd, there are many of us. But somehow, her story has just finally broke through, searching for words that doesn't start with.....it is so f-ing sad. Failing miserably, makes my heart so heavy

[@starflower703]

You aren’t alone and we will continue to speak up for girls and boys like Maddie!

[@alexboogam]

This was a great presentation of the up-to-date facts in the sad, tragic and completely avoidable Madeline Soto case.

[@Tereselynn]

I believe the mother knows! IF she doesn't? then she's awful dumb.

[@rlnstn9300]

She has to have either glimpsed something going on or heard something. She had to have had an idea or feeling or have witnessed something "not quite right" as in how he acted around Madeline or interacted with her in front of the mother.

[@Charmander009]

Who do u think was recording it

[@oOIIIMIIIOo]

​@@Charmander009You have seen the stuff, so you know how it was recorded?

[@tammyhotchkiss9165]

​@@Charmander009Maybe the monster was recording it himself ⁉️🥺🙏

[@lunis471]

The lies from her mother speaks volumes indeed! Heartbreaking this is 😢

[@vixtex]

May she rest in peace 🌸

[@katd1845]

G girl, That is a beautiful intro that you made for little Maddie beautiful intro. Thank you so much for including those little children that knew her and letting them express or showing us how they were allowed to express how they felt about her and the situation. That really touched my heart and I think it's very very meaningful ❤❤❤❤❤

[@Just_ice_forvictims]

His friend told to STS Nation that his (Stephan’s) mom is pure evil. And their relationship was weird.

[@theorphan9700]

Gisela I tried watching this one but just a few minutes in I started crying and stopped. I'm glad your giving updates. Love you all, peace TonyK

[@rhondashort1823]

Why was her body released to the family so quickly? JJ vallow and the remains of Tylee were not released till their mother's trial was over? Both murders were heinous so what was the difference?

[@lisafederline-yx3tq]

I'd like to know too

[@waitaminute2015]

We have a thing called due process and nobody is charged with murder. Innocent until proven guilty, in the meantime you can't hold a body from family once autopsy is done.

[@xokrystalox10]

What I don’t understand is why hasn’t he been charged for discarding Madeline’s laptop and backpack and having her deceased body in his car?? That blows my mind!!

[@waitaminute2015]

Stealing something isn't prison time, especially with no record. Maybe their evidence of her dead in the car isn't too strong.

[@lorabell3553]

Thank you Gisela. Glad u r covering this case. Its so horrendous. Poor beautiful Madeline😢😢

[@susanjane2498]

If she was a vacation planner, it seems really odd that office work like that would be on a Sunday when her daughter's birthday party was held. I am not believing her story.

[@anniezion]

Right. Working night shifts for vacation planning?...bs

[@Wendelyn38]

She worked nightshift too. Maybe since her shift ended on Monday morning it was considered a Monday. I worked nightshift and one place considered it a Monday.

[@joled498]

They have 24 hour vacation planners. People all over the world travel to Disney World. She probably was a phone worker booking/planning these vacation details.

[@anniezion]

@@joled498Ok. Sounds weird to me though, having things done during night time, that could just as well be done day time, work wise. And yeah, I get people travel from all over, but I thought (I am not American and not native speaking English) a "vacation planner" was for the staff, planning their schedules..So my bad if I misunderstood.

[@taramay8174]

Think mum killed her and boyfriend was abusing her. That mothers evil too

[@ronascull5013]

Just discovered you last week. I'm a fan! Thank you for the additional details not heard from the others. They're good too, but you add more details.

[@jasestrickland1704]

Sweet Angel, rest in peace. How horrible this world was for you. I’m sorry for the pain you endured. May justice come for those who hurt you. God bless your surviving family, friends, PD, investigators, community and strength and wisdom come to those involved in finding the truth.

[@marybeecraft6563]

Love the openings for all the missing or murdered children that you cover...helps to personalize the children. ❤RIP❤

[@birtiebow6092]

Ohh no. This case is keeping me up at night. I don't want to watch it but I can't not. I want him punished but I'm so scared he will be offed at any moment that church and neighbourhood is a click. Something very very wrong here 😢

[@susanjane2498]

I graduated in 1980, and the first two years I was in high school, anytime that I skipped school my parents were called. I never got away with skipping, lol.

[@Charmander009]

So u were hoping they wouldn’t call 😂

[@nhangnguyen5252]

I was watching CourtTV and some lawyers said that Stephen can't be eligible for the death penalty, as the crimes that he committed on Maddie when she was under 12yrs, predates the time when the laws came into place, so they can't retroactively apply the law to Stephan

[@59jace]

Agree ,saw that info also ,I wonder if they’ve got more recent evidence they can charge the death penalty ,it’s so horrific ,I’m hoping they arrest others if he was in a ring ,there seems to be so many more out there ,children are not safe

[@NutsNBerries]

If she was pregnant when they killed her…that will be more charges

[@patriciariggs202]

If he's found guilty of m#>Der he can get DP

[@jaggybee4704]

They’re smart to take their time and build an extremely strong case and plus we don’t know how deep this goes he could’ve been selling all of that CP unfortunately, a lot of children are going through exactly what she went through😭😭

[@debbievalentine6810]

Can you imagine if she really didnt know but had enough concern to break up with him, but then the factory reset of the phone and the things he asked her to say.....it slowly dawning on her .....what a gut wrenching nightmare

[@margcobbett7676]

Heart broken for this beautiful young girl.I don't know if I can honestly watch the rest of this very sick disturbing Crime. RIP sweet Madeline.

[@vickinator]

This mother knew and was protecting this monster! I feel so awful for that poor baby! It’s illogical to think he had all those videos and the mother was clueless! He started when she was 8! What mother is so disconnected from their child that they don’t see what is happening?

[@megpeter]

I'm so sad for Madeline.... it's really unfathomable what she went through

[@eattherich7782]

Best case summary without a ton of speculation that I've seen all week. Thanks!

[@karenbragg3428]

Most Definitely...first time seeing her channel...she is doing a GREAT JOB!! IM DEFINITELY FOLLOWING HER

[@Dorothy4Jesus]

HE'S SICK&TWISTED!!

[@CharlieP456]

Omg...60 charges...that was so hard to listen to. Ty G...it must be hard for you to find/read this stuff

[@trixie1216]

When my daughter was an investigator on a csam task force she had a case that she wrote I think it was 40 or 60 separate charges for a human this disgusting. It was hard for her as the child was similar in age to her daughter at the time. It definitely made her want to be extra sure she wrote every charge she justifiably could.

[@bossmommamoves4498]

Please tell your daughter she's an angel, I can't imagine how hard her line of work is especially as a mother but the world NEEDS her and we thank her 💜

[@Mcoogie]

Yay, was waiting for updates!

[@Jamthecannavore]

I live in Canada, attendance is done within the 1st half hour of school starting and parents are notified by 10am via automatic phone call if the student isn't there. Changes can be made!

[@lFUDARE]

This case made me take a break from Crime.. literally in my own backyard.

[@trishab6220]

Yeah me also, kind of the last straw, with all going on atm.

[@LaDiieToRi]

Why would you have your daughter’s birthday party on a night that you have to work? How does that even work?

[@NutsNBerries]

That’s what I said….what mother isn’t at the kid party….I never work on my kid birthday

[@honeybadger1847]

Better than no party at all? My mother would bake a cake for me, but we had no parties as her only day off was Monday. She was terrified of losing her job, a fear that stayed with her until six months before her death 🤷🏽‍♀️.

[@LaDiieToRi]

@@honeybadger1847absolutely! No PARTY! Until I can plan it on a day I’m off! Duh! Which most working parents do. Plan around life!