The sheriff’s office in Osceola County, Florida is facing criticism after a photo, believed to be from the crime scene where 13-year-old Madeline Soto was found deceased, was reportedly posted on their official Instagram account. The department has since issued an apology for the incident.
Key Takeaway
The Osceola County Sheriff’s office has issued an apology after a potentially sensitive photo from the Madeline Soto case was shared on social media. The incident has sparked concerns and raised questions about the handling of sensitive information related to the ongoing investigation.
A Questionable Post
Following the discovery of Madeline’s body in a wooded area, a photo of human remains was allegedly shared on the Osceola County Sheriff’s official Instagram account. The image, which is said to have matched Madeline’s description, has since been removed. The Sheriff’s office has expressed regret for any confusion or distress caused by the post, stating that it was inadvertently included in a social media update about a community event for seniors.
Unfortunate Circumstances
Adding to the controversy, on the same day as the controversial post, a member of the sheriff’s office shared a selfie with Stephan Sterns, the boyfriend of Madeline’s mother and the primary suspect in her disappearance and death. Sterns has been taken into custody on charges related to child pornography and sexual battery of a child. The circumstances surrounding the selfie and its accompanying message have raised further questions.
Continued Investigation
While law enforcement has not directly linked the charges against Sterns to Madeline’s case, the investigation into her death and disappearance is ongoing. The Kissimmee Police Department has taken over the inquiry, and it’s important to note that Florida law prohibits the release of photos depicting the killing of a minor without permission from the surviving family.
