Stephen Sterns wants to keep his trial private and is arguing to bar the public and media from the courtroom.

Sterns’ public defender, Alesha Smith, presented a PowerPoint to the judge showing how many podcasts, TikTok, Reddit, and YouTube accounts are following the case. She called the coverage “unprecedented” and argued it would make a fair trial impossible.

Minch Minchin, representing several news organizations, countered that Florida and U.S. courts consistently rule proceedings should remain open. “Prominence does not produce prejudice, and juror impartiality does not require ignorance,” Minchin said.

Judge Keith Carsten said he would rule within 10 days.

Meanwhile, authorities released 35 recorded jail calls between Sterns and his parents. In the recordings, Sterns said he found Maddie “ice cold” with her lips “turning blue.” He also said he wished he had called 911. His mother, Debra Sterns, replied, “I wish you had too.”

Joining Nancy Grace today:

Philip Dubé - Former Court-Appointed Counsel, Los Angeles County Public Defenders: Criminal & Constitutional Law, Forensics & Mental Health Advocacy
Caryn Stark - Psychologist, Renowned TV and Radio Trauma Expert and Consultant; Instagram: carynpsych, FB: Caryn Stark Private Practice
Tom Smith - Former NYPD Detective for 30 years, Co-Host of the GOLD SHIELDS Podcast; FB & Instagram: @thegoldshieldshow
Barry Hutchison - Former 26-year Law Enforcement Veteran and Detective, Owner & Chief Investigator for Barry & Associates Investigative Services located in Kansas & Missouri
Anna Sonoda - Child Sex Abuse and Grooming Expert, Clinical Social Worker [counsels convicted sex offenders]; Author of "Duck Duck Groom: Understanding How a Child Becomes a Target”
Joseph Scott Morgan - Professor of Forensics: Jacksonville State University, Author of "Blood Beneath My Feet," and Host: "Body Bags with Joseph Scott Morgan;" X: @JoScottForensic
Shannon Butler - Investigative Reporter at WFTV Channel 9 in Florida
Dave Mack -CrimeOnline.com Investigative Reporte

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

SUSPECT CLAIMS PTSD AFTER 'FINDING' MADDIE SOTO 13, 'ICE COLD, BLUE LIPS'