The trial of two women charged with stalking Madeleine McCann’s family has resumed, focusing on the collection of DNA samples in the search for the missing three-year-old. Leicester Crown Court has heard testimony from Madeleine’s parents, Kate and Gerry, as well as their younger siblings, friends, the local vicar, and investigators involved in the case. The court was informed about the negative impact of the alleged actions of Julia Wandelt and Karen Spragg on the family.
Julia Wandelt, a 24-year-old Polish national from Lubin, is accused of contacting the McCann family, claiming to be Madeleine, and visiting their residence along with Karen Spragg, a 61-year-old from Cardiff. Wandelt reportedly emailed the Find Madeleine website asserting her identity, which was later forwarded to Operation Grange, the Metropolitan Police’s ongoing investigation. Authorities confirmed that Wandelt was not a match through DNA analysis.
Stacy Gorman, an American assisting in the campaign to find Madeleine, expressed concerns in court about Wandelt’s claims potentially diverting attention from the real search efforts. Despite persistent emails from Wandelt requesting a DNA test, the McCanns remained gracious. The court heard that Wandelt’s repeated contact, coupled with social media attention, raised fears of misinformation and conspiracy theories spreading.
Forensic scientist Rosalyn Hammond testified that DNA comparisons conclusively ruled out Wandelt as Madeleine. The court learned that Wandelt’s DNA sample did not match the DNA profiles of Madeleine or her parents. The proceedings have been adjourned for further deliberations.
Wandelt’s repeated assertions, including claims of genetic connections to the McCann family, have been a focal point of the trial. Karen Spragg, Wandelt’s co-accused, faces stalking charges related to the same incidents occurring between June 2022 and February 2025. The court will reconvene to continue hearing testimony and evidence in the case.