Julia Wandelt, a 23-year-old Polish woman who gained international attention by claiming to be the missing British child Madeleine McCann, has been arrested and charged with multiple counts of stalking.
Wandelt was apprehended at Bristol Airport on February 19, 2025, upon her arrival from Wroclaw, Poland.
She has been charged with four counts of stalking, allegedly causing significant distress to Madeleine's parents, Kate and Gerry McCann, as well as their twins, Sean and Amelie.
Leicestershire Police released a statement confirming the charges: "A woman has been charged with stalking offences following her arrest at Bristol Airport on Wednesday (19 February)."
Julia Wandel – also known as Julia Wandelt – 23, of Lubin, Poland, has been charged with four counts of stalking. Two counts relate to offences between 2 May 2024 and 15 February 2025; a third count relates to offences between 3 January 2024 and 21 April 2024; and the fourth count for offences between 27 November 2024 and 29 December 2024.
She has been remanded in custody to appear at Leicester Magistrates’ Court today (21 February)." Additionally, a 60-year-old woman from Wales, who was arrested on suspicion of stalking in connection with the case, has been released on police bail.
Wandelt first attracted media attention in early 2023 when she created an Instagram account under the handle @iammadeleinemccan, asserting that she might be the missing child who disappeared in Portugal in 2007.
She cited vague childhood memories, a similar eye defect known as coloboma of the iris, and comparable physical markings as evidence supporting her claim.
Despite her assertions, a DNA test conducted during an appearance on the American television show Dr. Phil in April 2023 revealed that she was "absolutely 100 percent from Poland," effectively debunking her claims.
In response to Wandelt's allegations, her family in Poland issued a statement expressing their distress (via BBC News): "For us as a family, it is obvious that Julia is our daughter, granddaughter, sister, niece, cousin, and step-niece. Threats to our address from Julia, her lies and manipulations, activity on the internet... The interest won’t forget, and it’s obvious that Julia isn’t Maddie. We are devastated at this current situation."
Despite the conclusive DNA results and her family's assertions, Wandelt continued to claim she was Madeleine McCann, leading to increased scrutiny and concern from the public and authorities. Her persistent attempts to contact the McCann family, including sending unsolicited messages and appearing uninvited at their residence, culminated in her recent arrest.
The McCann family has endured immense public attention and numerous unfounded claims since their daughter's disappearance. Wandelt's actions have added to their distress, prompting legal intervention to protect their privacy and well-being.
As the case proceeds, it underscores the challenges faced by families of missing persons, who must navigate not only the pain of their loss but also the complications arising from false claims and public intrusion.
Wandelt's arrest serves as a cautionary tale about the potential consequences of unfounded allegations and the importance of respecting the privacy of individuals enduring personal tragedies.
The legal proceedings will determine the outcome of the charges against her, while the McCann family continues to seek peace amidst ongoing challenges.