Women accosted Madeleine McCann's family outside their home, court hears

Women accosted Madeleine McCann's family outside their home, court hears

The trial of two women accused of stalking Madeleine McCann’s family took a disturbing turn when they allegedly showed up outside her parents’ residence and confronted them. Julia Wandelt, 24, who has reportedly claimed to be the missing daughter of the McCanns, along with Karen Spragg, are facing charges of stalking Kate and Gerry McCann from June 2022 to February of the current year. According to Leicester Crown Court, Mrs. McCann was approached by Wandelt demanding a DNA test, and the defendants supposedly attempted to push a letter into Mr. McCann’s hand on December 7 last year. Both Wandelt, from Poland, and Spragg from Cardiff, deny the allegations.

Prosecutor Michael Duck KC revealed that Wandelt’s numerous attempts to contact the McCanns from Poland were rejected, leading her to travel to the UK for a direct approach. At a vigil in Rothley, Leicestershire, held on the anniversary of Madeleine’s disappearance, the couple was absent, sparing them what the prosecutor described as an unwanted encounter. Instead, Wandelt engaged with family members and the village priest, leaving a letter for Mrs. McCann’s great-aunt and a note at their doorstep requesting a DNA test. Pursuing contacts associated with the McCanns, such as David Payne, who was present on the night of Madeleine’s disappearance, yielded no direct communication. Despite multiple unsuccessful attempts, Wandelt persisted in her efforts, even disregarding police warnings to avoid Leicestershire to prevent arrest.

The court heard how Spragg supported Wandelt and promoted conspiracy theories implicating Madeleine’s parents in her disappearance. Duck KC cited Spragg’s vehement communication and involvement in Wandelt’s pursuits as evidence of a shared conspiracy mindset. The dialogue between the two women escalated, involving plans such as searching the McCanns’ bins for DNA samples. The prosecutor emphasized their unwavering determination, suggesting that their actions were far from over. As the trial progresses, details of their collaboration and relentless pursuit in harassing the McCann family continue to emerge.

In late 2024, Wandelt flew to the UK and was reportedly met by Spragg, with their movements tracked to the vicinity of the McCanns’ residence. CCTV footage showed their presence near the family home, where Mrs. McCann was met with confrontation by Wandelt’s attempt to block her entry while Spragg displayed aggressive behavior. Despite being unsuccessful in delivering a letter to Mr. McCann, their persistence led to a police intervention. With claims of identity confusion and further plans to harass the McCanns surfacing, the defendants allegedly insinuated themselves into the family’s lives. The ongoing trial presents a disturbing narrative of intrusive behavior and unwarranted fear inflicted upon the McCanns

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