A woman who claimed to be Madeleine McCann has been convicted of harassing the family of the missing girl by showing up at their residence, sending disturbing letters, and requesting a DNA test. Julia Wandelt, 24, tearfully maintained her belief that she was Madeleine during her trial at Leicester Crown Court. The court rejected Wandelt’s assertion, emphasizing that she is not the actual missing child. Wandelt, a resident of Lubin in south-west Poland, has been sentenced to six months in prison and issued a restraining order preventing contact with Madeleine’s parents, Kate and Gerry, due to the perceived risk of future harassment.
Wandelt propagated the false claim of being Madeleine while engaging in a campaign of harassment against Kate and Gerry, including sending emails, leaving voicemails, and showing up at their home. She also targeted the couple’s friends with unsettling messages, imploring them to facilitate communication with the McCanns.
Following deliberation, the jury cleared Wandelt of stalking charges but found her guilty of harassment. Co-defendant Karen Spragg was acquitted of both stalking and harassment allegations. Wandelt and Spragg displayed emotion in the dock as the verdict was delivered.
During sentencing, Mrs. Justice Cutts highlighted the unkind and unwarranted nature of Wandelt’s actions towards the McCanns, emphasizing their right to privacy and autonomy in deciding whom to engage with. The judge commended the jury for their diligent examination of the evidence before concluding the trial.
Prosecution counsel Michael Duck KC sought a restraining order against Wandelt due to the evident harassment of the McCann family. Mrs. Justice Cutts informed Wandelt about a deportation order that had been issued against her, indicating that her release would be determined by the relevant authorities.
David Payne, a family friend of the McCanns, expressed surprise and concern over Wandelt possessing private photos of the McCann and Payne families. Wandelt’s attempt to contact the McCanns at their residence in Leicestershire was met with a refusal from Kate, leading to an emotional encounter.
Wandelt, visibly emotional during cross-examination, expressed exhaustion with the situation and appeared resigned to the conclusion that she is not Madeleine. The court emphasized the lack of DNA evidence linking Wandelt to the McCanns, underscoring the baselessness of her claims.
Mrs. Justice Cutts acknowledged the jury’s service and diligence in examining the case before concluding the trial proceedings.
