A woman charged with stalking Madeleine McCann’s family remains uncertain about whether she could be their missing daughter. Julia Wandelt, a 24-year-old Polish national, has reportedly asserted that she might be the disappeared girl who went missing during a family vacation in Portugal in 2007. Wandelt, hailing from Lubin in south-west Poland, is accused of perpetuating the claim of being Madeleine by sending emails, making phone calls, and showing up at the McCanns’ residence.
During questioning at Leicester Crown Court, prosecutor Michael Duck KC asked Wandelt if she still believed she could be Madeleine McCann. Wandelt expressed a mixed sentiment, stating that she would like to see concrete documentation to confirm or refute her identity. When pressed further, she maintained her uncertainty, indicating a 50/50 stance on the matter.
When asked about her expectations, Wandelt emotionally demanded an investigation into her own disappearance and the circumstances leading to her current situation. She mentioned that she would walk away if presented with conclusive evidence proving she is not Madeleine.
Wandelt was also questioned about a letter she wrote to Mrs. McCann, addressing her as “Dear Mum (Kate)” and signing off as “Madeleine.” In response to being accused of causing distress, Wandelt clarified that she did not apologize, as she did not acknowledge her actions as distressing.
Regarding her visit to the McCanns’ home in December 2024, Wandelt denied any intimidation, claiming she would be open to communicating with someone who believed they were her missing child. Wandelt, along with co-accused Karen Spragg from Cardiff, is facing charges related to stalking the McCanns over an extended period. The trial is ongoing.