A convicted stalker who sent a series of disturbing letters to Kate McCann about her missing daughter Madeleine has been sentenced in a case that has sent shivers through the investigation team.
Michael O'Sullivan, 52, was handed a suspended prison sentence and restraining order after admitting to stalking the mother of the missing girl, whose disappearance in Portugal 17 years ago remains one of Britain's most haunting unsolved cases.
Disturbing Correspondence
The court heard how O'Sullivan sent multiple handwritten letters to Kate McCann at her family home in Rothley, Leicestershire, between January and March 2024. The correspondence contained what prosecutors described as "disturbing content" directly referencing the ongoing search for Madeleine.
Detective Constable Alistair Mclean of Leicestershire Police emphasised the impact of such actions, stating: "This was a deeply distressing situation for the McCann family, who have already endured unimaginable pain."
Police Intervention and Arrest
Police became aware of the situation in March 2024 and immediately launched an investigation. O'Sullivan was identified as the sender and subsequently arrested at his home address in Leicester.
During police interviews, O'Sullivan made concerning comments that prompted officers to refer him to mental health services under the Mental Health Act.
Court Sentencing
At Leicester Magistrates' Court, O'Sullivan received a 12-week prison sentence, suspended for 12 months, along with a restraining order prohibiting him from contacting Kate McCann or visiting Rothley for five years.
The court also imposed a rehabilitation requirement and ordered O'Sullivan to pay £154 in costs and victim surcharge.
Ongoing Investigation
This disturbing case comes as the Metropolitan Police continue their investigation into Madeleine's disappearance, known as Operation Grange, which has cost approximately £13 million since its launch in 2011.
German authorities also maintain an active investigation, having identified convicted sex offender Christian Brueckner as a formal suspect in the case.
DC Mclean concluded: "We hope this outcome provides some reassurance to the McCann family and demonstrates our commitment to protecting them from such intrusive behaviour while the search for answers continues."
