This is Hidden Killers with Tony Bruske.

Here now, Tony Bruske.

What you're about to hear is the first of 11 jailhouse phone calls between Stefan Stearns, as you see right here, and his parents.

Stefan, as many of you already know, is facing the unthinkable charges of first-degree murder

and the death of 13-year-old Madeline Soto.

It's a case that we've been covering now for quite some time, and these calls are very eye-opening.

He's also charged with child exploitation as well after evidence revealed that he had been

sexually abusing.

Madeline Soto for many years.

In this first call, we're dropped straight into the emotional chaos.

Birthday's miss, confusion about charges,

logistical issues over commissary,

and the jarring contrast of everyday parental love

colliding with horrifying legal realities.

Pay close attention to his parents and try to give them some grace.

There's a complicated dance here they're doing between concern, disbelief, and resignation.

They're grappling with the grief of potentially losing their son

to the system while also desperately trying to piece together what led to this moment.

Stefan, meanwhile, seems oddly detached, focused more on his belongings and creature comforts and the crushing weight of

the allegations. It's heartbreaking, it's infuriating, it's real. Let's take a listen.

Hi. Where the hell are you been? I've been trying to call when they have us on lockdown so often.

Every time I've asked, we've been on a coastide lockdown.

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