A disturbing stalking case targeting the parents of missing Madeleine McCann has taken a chilling turn with revelations about letters allegedly sent by the accused.
Christopher Dwan, 37, appeared at Westminster Magistrates' Court facing charges of stalking Kate and Gerry McCann, the parents who have tirelessly searched for their daughter since her disappearance in Portugal 18 years ago.
The Chilling Correspondence
Prosecutors revealed that Dwan allegedly sent multiple items to the McCanns' home in Rothley, Leicestershire, including a letter signed with the haunting pseudonym "Madeleine X." The correspondence contained what authorities described as "threatening, abusive, and alarming" content that caused significant distress to the couple.
Detective Constable Sarah Roberts of Leicestershire Police outlined how the communications referenced the McCanns' missing daughter, creating what she called "maximum psychological impact" on parents who have endured unimaginable trauma.
Security Breach and Family Impact
The case has raised serious concerns about the security surrounding the McCann family, who have maintained a relatively low profile in recent years while continuing their search for answers about Madeleine's 2007 disappearance from a Portuguese holiday apartment.
Kate McCann, in a statement read to the court, described the profound effect the alleged harassment has had on their family, stating the communications left them feeling "violated and unsafe" in their own home.
Legal Proceedings and Conditions
Dwan, who gave his address as being in the Leicestershire area, spoke only to confirm his name and date of birth during the brief hearing. Chief Magistrate Paul Goldspring released him on bail with strict conditions, including:
- A prohibition on contacting Kate or Gerry McCann directly or indirectly
- Ban on entering the Rothley area where the McCanns reside
- Restrictions on publishing any material about the family online
The case has been transferred to Leicester Crown Court, with a preliminary hearing scheduled for November 4th. Dwan has not yet entered a formal plea to the stalking charges, which cover alleged conduct between June and September of this year.
This development represents another painful chapter for the McCann family, who have faced numerous challenges and intrusions since their daughter's disappearance while maintaining their determined search for truth and closure.
