Full Breakdown
Trial of Julia Wandelt: Stalking Claims in the Madeleine McCann Case
10/16/2025, 11:10:49 PM
Overview of the Stalking Allegations
Julia Wandelt, a 24-year-old from Poland, is on trial at Leicester Crown Court, accused of stalking Kate and Gerry McCann, the parents of missing child Madeleine McCann. Wandelt allegedly bombarded the McCanns with phone calls, letters, and messages claiming to be their daughter, who disappeared in May 2007 while on holiday in Portugal. Alongside her co-defendant, 61-year-old Karen Spragg from Cardiff, Wandelt faces charges related to this harassment, which reportedly occurred between June 2022 and February 2025.
Testimonies from the 'Tapas Seven'
David and Fiona Payne, members of the so-called "Tapas Seven" who were dining with the McCanns on the night of Madeleine's disappearance, provided emotional testimony during the trial. They described receiving "disturbing" messages from Wandelt, who claimed to believe she was Madeleine. Fiona Payne expressed concern over Wandelt's attempts to contact their daughter, stating, "I felt angry actually that she sought to manipulate her in that way." The Paynes have been close friends with the McCanns for over 20 years, and Fiona noted that Wandelt's claims had deeply affected both families.
Nature of the Communications
Wandelt's communications included multiple phone calls and messages to the Paynes, where she expressed her belief that she could help "clear your names" and demanded a DNA test. In one recorded call, Wandelt urged David Payne to connect her with the McCanns, stating, "I truly believe I’m Madeleine." David Payne described the calls as "upsetting," emphasizing the trauma both families have endured since Madeleine's disappearance.
Court Findings and Evidence
The court heard that a DNA test conducted by police confirmed that Wandelt is not Madeleine McCann. Despite this, Wandelt continued to assert her claims, suggesting that she had been given large doses of medication as a child that could have caused memory loss. She also requested the McCanns' blood types to further her claims. The prosecution presented evidence of Wandelt's persistent contact, including messages sent on Christmas Eve, which read, "Merry Christmas David. The truth will set you all free."
Official Statements & Responses
During the trial, the prosecution highlighted the emotional toll on the McCanns and their friends due to Wandelt's actions. Fiona Payne remarked on the unsolicited nature of Wandelt's contact, stating, "We have had lots of unsolicited contact from various people over the years... however we have never been contacted by anyone who thinks they could be Madeleine."
Criticism & Opposition
Critics of Wandelt's actions have pointed out the distress caused to the McCann family and their close friends. The Paynes articulated their frustration and anger over Wandelt's manipulative behavior, particularly towards their daughter, who was the same age as Madeleine when she disappeared.
What's Next
The trial is set to continue, with further testimonies expected. The court will examine the implications of Wandelt's claims and the psychological impact on the McCann family and their associates.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Mrs Payne replied: 'It is really difficult, she is a vulnerable young adult who has been adversely affected by Madeleine's disappearance.” — Fiona Payne, Member of the 'Tapas Seven'
- “ Mr Payne replies: “I am not in a position to be able to help, I have had enough trauma and so have the family.” — David Payne, Member of the 'Tapas Seven'
- “Merry Christmas David, the truth will set you free.” — Julia Wandelt, Alleged Stalker
