An Osceola County judge has denied a motion by Stephan Sterns, the accused in the high-profile Maddie Soto Murder case, to close court hearings to the press. Sterns, who faces charges of sexual abuse and the murder of 13-year-old Madeline Soto, argued that media coverage could compromise his right to a fair trial. However, the court ruled that transparency and public access to these proceedings are paramount under the First Amendment. Univision News interviewed Orlando criminal defense attorney and television legal analyst Jose Rivas about the ruling.

The Case Against Stephan Sterns

Stephan Sterns, 37, faces over 60 charges of sexual abuse, including sexual battery and possession of child pornography, in addition to charges for the murder of Maddie Soto. Investigators allege that Sterns committed sexual abuse on Soto for years before her tragic death, which was determined to be caused by strangulation.

Soto’s disappearance in February 2024 led to a swift investigation that allegedly uncovered disturbing evidence on Sterns’ electronic devices. This evidence not only implicated him in sexual abuse but also tied him to her death. Sterns is scheduled to stand trial for sexual abuse on May 5, 2025, with a separate trial for Soto’s murder set for September.

Rivas Legal Analysis: Why the Court Denied the Motion

Sterns’ defense team sought to close pretrial proceedings, citing concerns that extensive media coverage could bias potential jurors. Rivas explained why such motions rarely succeed.

“The judge has to balance constitutional rights,” Rivas said. “On one hand, the defense argues that media exposure could taint the jury pool. On the other hand, the First Amendment guarantees press access to court proceedings so they can inform the public.” He added that closing courtrooms in criminal cases is highly unusual and typically reserved for cases involving witness intimidation or child victims testifying.

The judge assured both parties that measures would be taken to ensure a fair trial despite media presence. “This ruling underscores the importance of transparency in our judicial system,” Rivas said. “While protecting due process is critical, restricting access can raise questions about accountability.”

Public Reaction and Implications

The Maddie Soto Murder case has drawn widespread attention due to its disturbing details and Sterns’ alleged long history of abuse. Public interest in justice for Soto has fueled intense media scrutiny, which Sterns’ attorneys argue could jeopardize his right to an impartial jury.

However, legal experts emphasize that courts have mechanisms to mitigate potential bias. These include thorough jury selection processes and instructions for jurors to avoid media coverage during trials. “The system is designed to handle high-profile cases like this,” Rivas explained.

Key Facts About Stephan Sterns’ Legal Battles

• Charges: Over 60 counts of sexual abuse and one count of first-degree murder.
• Trial Dates: Sexual abuse trial begins May 5, 2025; murder trial follows on September 22.
• Evidence: Investigators found thousands of illicit images on Sterns’ devices and surveillance data linking him to suspicious activities before Soto’s death127.

What’s Next?

As both trials approach, legal analysts predict intense courtroom battles over evidence admissibility and jury selection. The prosecution will likely focus on forensic evidence and digital records tying Sterns to both crimes. Meanwhile, his defense team may continue raising concerns about pretrial publicity.

“This case will test how well our justice system balances public interest with individual rights,” said Rivas. “Ultimately, it’s about ensuring justice is served while upholding constitutional protections.”

Call 407-644-2466 to speak with an Orlando criminal defense attorney at the Rivas Law Firm.

Jose Rivas is a veteran bilingual Orlando Criminal Defense Attorney and television legal analyst who has appeared on Univision, Fox News, Telemundo, and other major networks.