Kissimmee Police Chief Betty Holland broke the silence on the investigation into the death of the 13-year-old, providing an update after two weeks of no news. The update was given on Thursday afternoon, shedding light on the case that occurred around 26 February.
According to Chief Holland, Stephan Sterns, the boyfriend of the 13-year-old’s mother, has been charged in connection with the case. However, he has been uncooperative so far.
The chief mentioned that they haven’t spoken with him as he has invoked his right to a lawyer.
“Mr. Sterns is firmly confined in jail and is expected to remain there for a significant period of time.”
Chief Holland stated that she did not think Mr. Sterns’ refusal to cooperate had contributed to any delays in the investigation.
According to reports, there have been allegations of abuse dating back to 2019, when Madeline was just eight years old.
On February 26th, the girl was reported missing when she didn’t attend school in Kissimmee.
On March 1st, investigators made a grim discovery when they announced that they were certain she had met her demise. Her lifeless body was found a few hours later in a wooded area.
Mr. Sterns was the last person to see Madeline alive.
The cause of Madeline’s death has not yet been disclosed. Chief Holland mentioned that his department is still awaiting the medical examiner’s report.
The chief was asked if they were investigating anyone else as a suspect, including Madeline’s mother. In response, the chief stated that they had not ruled anything out.
Holland stated that anyone who was close to Madeline is regarded as a suspect until proven innocent.
“We are committed to thoroughly investigating every fact and gathering all the evidence. We believe it is important to prioritize accuracy and thoroughness over setting a specific timeline.”
According to the chief, investigators are currently working to ascertain both the location and cause of Madeline’s death. The chief emphasized that no further information would be released until the officers have gathered all the necessary facts.
Mr. Sterns has a pre-trial hearing scheduled for April 24, followed by a full trial with a jury beginning on May 13.
