Julia Wandel Accused of Disturbing the Family Through Multiple Unwanted Contacts

A 23-year-old Polish woman, Julia Wandel, has been charged with stalking the family of missing British girl Madeleine McCann, after repeatedly making unwelcome contact with them, including sending messages, voicemails, and even appearing at their home. Wandel, who claims to be Madeleine, is accused of causing serious distress to the McCann family over the past year.

Between May 2022 and February 2025, Wandel allegedly engaged in persistent harassment, including turning up at the McCann family home and sending letters, making phone calls, and leaving voicemails. She is also accused of contacting Madeleine’s siblings, Amelie and Sean, and attempting to interact with them via WhatsApp and Instagram.

The court heard that Wandel travelled from Poland to attend an annual vigil for Madeleine in August 2024. During this visit, she allegedly delivered a handwritten letter to the family. The prosecutor stated that Wandel had become obsessed with the idea of being the missing girl, even requesting a DNA test from the family.

Wandel was arrested upon her arrival at Bristol Airport on Wednesday. A 60-year-old friend, who was with her, was also detained in connection with the stalking case but has been released on bail. Both arrests were carried out by Avon and Somerset Police on behalf of Leicestershire Police, who are investigating the case.

Wandel appeared in court for the first time on Friday and was remanded in custody. She faces charges related to stalking offences occurring in various periods from May 2024 to December 2024. The next court hearing will be held on April 7, 2025, at Leicester Crown Court.

Madeleine McCann, who disappeared in May 2007 while on holiday in Portugal, remains one of the most high-profile missing person cases in the UK.