A Polish woman who falsely claimed to be Madeleine McCann has been found guilty of harassing the missing girl's family. Julia Wandelt, 24, from Lubin, south-west Poland, was convicted at Leicester Crown Court after a campaign of calls, messages, and appearances at the McCanns' home.
The court heard that Wandelt contacted Madeleine's mother Kate more than 60 times in a single day in April last year, claiming memories of being abducted. She also confronted the McCanns on their driveway in December, demanding a DNA test. Wandelt was sentenced to six months in prison, a term she has already served, and faces deportation to Poland.
Judge Mrs Justice Cutts imposed a restraining order, citing a 'significant risk' of future harassment. The jury found Wandelt not guilty of stalking, and co-defendant Karen Spragg was acquitted of all charges. The McCanns gave evidence from behind a screen, expressing hope that Wandelt receives appropriate care.
Forensic expert Rosalyn Hammond confirmed that DNA tests prove Wandelt is not Madeleine McCann. Wandelt told the court she was '50/50' about her identity, later stating, 'I do believe I'm her.' The McCanns said they took no pleasure from the verdict and only wanted the harassment to stop.
