A 24-year-old Polish woman, Julia Wandelt, facing charges of stalking Madeleine McCann’s family, expressed uncertainty about whether she is the missing daughter. Wandelt, hailing from Lubin, Poland, allegedly presented herself as Madeleine McCann while harassing Kate and Gerry McCann through emails, phone calls, and visits to their residence. During her testimony at Leicester Crown Court, Wandelt stated she would reconsider her belief if provided with conclusive documentation proving she is not Madeleine.
Prosecutor Michael Duck KC questioned Wandelt on her persistent belief of being Madeleine McCann, to which she responded with hesitation, indicating she is undecided. Wandelt emotionally appealed for an investigation into her own disappearance and the circumstances that led to her current situation. When asked if a negative DNA test result would prompt her to cease her claims, Wandelt affirmed that she would back down upon receiving complete documentation.
Additionally, Wandelt was questioned about a letter addressed to Mrs. McCann, signed off as “Madeleine,” where she expressed regret for causing distress. When confronted about the potential intimidation caused by her visit to the McCanns’ home, Wandelt defended her actions, stating she would be open to speaking with someone claiming to be her missing child if she were in a similar situation.
Julia Wandelt, a Polish national, is standing trial for over two and a half years of alleged stalking against the McCanns, alongside co-accused Karen Spragg from Cardiff, who faces charges related to alarming or distressing conduct towards the family. The trial proceedings are ongoing.
