Sheriff Apologizes For Inappropriate Instagram Post In Madeline Soto Case

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The Osceola County Sheriff’s Office is facing backlash after a controversial Instagram post related to the tragic case of 13-year-old Madeline Soto, who went missing and was later found deceased. The department has issued an apology for the post, which has sparked outrage and raised serious concerns.

A Questionable Instagram Post

Following the discovery of Madeline’s body, an image, believed to be from the crime scene and showing human remains resembling Madeline, was reportedly shared on the official Instagram account of Osceola County Sheriff Marcos Lopez. The post, which has since been deleted, has caused significant distress and has led to widespread criticism.

An Apology and Explanation

The Osceola County Sheriff’s Office has responded to the controversy by stating that the photo was mistakenly included in a post about a community event for seniors. They have expressed deep regret for any confusion or disturbance caused by this incident. However, they have neither confirmed nor denied whether the photo depicted Madeline’s body.

Further Controversy

Adding to the turmoil, another member of the sheriff’s office shared a selfie with Stephan Sterns, the boyfriend of Madeline’s mother and the prime suspect in her disappearance and death. This occurred on the same morning as the alleged post of the sensitive photo. The selfie was posted on a personal Facebook page and has since been removed.

Ongoing Investigations

While Sterns has been taken into custody on charges unrelated to Madeline’s case, law enforcement has not officially linked him to her disappearance and death. The Kissimmee Police Department is now leading the investigation into this tragic incident.