A young woman from Poland facing charges of stalking Madeleine McCann’s parents under the guise of being their missing daughter expressed fears for her safety in court. Julia Wandelt, 24, raised concerns about an incident in prison where she believes someone tampered with her drink prior to her trial, prompting her to seek a proper investigation into the matter even if she is cleared of the accusation. Wandelt also mentioned a friend’s offer to fund a DNA test to establish her true identity, citing a desire for justice due to feeling deceived and victimized in various ways.
During questioning by Karen Spragg’s barrister, Wandelt recounted the unsettling experience of having her drink spiked in custody shortly before her trial. She emphasized feeling vulnerable and shared past struggles with mental health issues and instances of abuse. Wandelt’s interactions with an individual named Fia Johansson, who she claimed misled her, were also highlighted during her testimony.
The prosecution maintains that Wandelt, hailing from Lubin, Poland, propagated a false narrative of being Madeleine while harassing the McCann family through emails, calls, and visits. Wandelt disclosed that a friend of Spragg’s, Steven Dempster, offered to assist in arranging a DNA test in Cardiff to pursue legal action, citing parallels to being a victim of injustice. She expressed skepticism about involving the McCanns in her efforts, noting their prior reluctance to engage with her.
When asked whether she intended to distress the McCanns, Wandelt denied any such motive, asserting that her actions were driven by a belief in her own identity rather than malice. She recounted an emotional encounter with Mrs. McCann outside their residence, interpreting the mother’s reaction as stemming from hope rather than distress. Wandelt also questioned the allocation of resources to the Madeleine McCann case, advocating for a DNA test to verify her identity.
Wandelt’s association with Spragg, who is her co-defendant in the stalking case, was characterized as one of mutual support and curiosity. The court heard about lighthearted discussions between the two regarding retrieving items from the McCanns’ home, which they viewed as a jest. Wandelt and Spragg both deny the stalking charge, with the trial ongoing.