A woman asserting that she is Madeleine McCann has been remanded in custody after being charged with stalking the parents and siblings of the missing child by arriving at their home, leaving voicemails, and sending messages.
Julia Wandel, also referred to as Julia Wandelt, was taken into custody at Bristol Airport on Wednesday.
During her appearance at Leicester Magistrates’ Court, the defendant identified herself as Julia Wandel “according to court documents,” provided her date of birth, and did not indicate her pleas.
The 23-year-old faces accusations of stalking Kate, Gerry, Sean, and Amelie McCann between January 3, 2024, and February 15, 2025.
The court heard that Ms. Wandel allegedly visited the family home on May 2 and December 7 of the previous year.
Kate and Gerry McCann
She is also alleged to have sent letters, made calls, left voicemails, and sent WhatsApp messages to Kate and Gerry McCann.
The court was informed that the defendant sent Instagram messages to Amelie and Sean McCann between January 3 and December 29 of the last year.
All four stalking charges carry a maximum penalty of 12 months in custody and/or an unlimited fine.
Julia Wandel appeared before Leicester Magistrates’ Court
Ms. Wandel, originally from Poland, was remanded in custody to appear for a plea hearing at Leicester Crown Court on April 7.
A second woman, aged 60, from Wales, who was also arrested at the airport on suspicion of stalking, has been released on bail, police stated.
