Claimed to Be Madeleine McCann: 24-Year-Old Convicted of Molesting Parents of Missing Child
Julia Wandelt, 24 years old, who claimed to be Madeleine McCann, was convicted of molesting the parents of the missing girl. Although acquitted of stalking charges, Judge Johannah Cutts issued a restraining order against Wandelt to protect Kate and Gerry McCann, citing a significant risk of future harassment.
Judge's Remarks and Sentence
“Annoying,” “inappropriate,” and “cruel,” were the terms used by the judge to describe Wandelt's behavior. The judge emphasized that “the maximum sentence for the crime of harassment is six months in prison.”
Judge Cutts noted that since Wandelt had already spent time in pre-trial detention, the sentence was considered served.
Background and Claims
Born three years after Madeleine's disappearance, Wandelt claimed she had been kidnapped and raised by a non-biological couple. On television, she stated:
“I think I'm Madeleine McCann.”
Despite police confirming she was not Madeleine and warning her against contacting the family, Wandelt appeared at the McCann home, sending disturbing letters and messages, repeatedly demanding a DNA test.
Summary
Julia Wandelt’s disturbing obsession with the McCann family led to a conviction for molestation and a court-imposed restraining order to prevent further harassment.