A woman claiming to have memories of Madeleine McCann’s disappearance has testified that Kate McCann deliberately concealed the extent of their contact. Julia Wandelt asserted this during questioning, suggesting a deliberate withholding of information from both the investigation and the jury.
Wandelt claims to possess recollections of her own abduction and a subsequent period living with the McCann family. She maintained she didn’t perceive her attempts to reach out as unwelcome, reasoning that anyone searching for a missing child would embrace any potential lead.
The court heard Wandelt express disbelief that the McCanns wouldn’t respond, speculating they may have been “threatened” and prevented from doing so. This belief fueled years of her own personal investigation, a pursuit she now questions, stating she feels misplaced as a witness.
Wandelt admitted to sending a deeply critical message to Kate McCann, accusing her of corruption and a lack of genuine desire to find Madeleine. While acknowledging the message stemmed from sadness and emotion, she expressed regret over its harsh wording.
Testimony revealed a tense encounter at Kate McCann’s home where Karen Spragg, a co-defendant, allegedly became verbally aggressive. Wandelt intervened, asking Spragg to lower her voice, an action acknowledged by Wandelt as potentially intimidating.
Wandelt explained her journey to the UK was driven by a desire for official DNA comparison between her profile and evidence from the crime scene, hoping to initiate legal proceedings. She believed a formal court process was the path to uncovering the truth.
Both Wandelt and Spragg stand accused of stalking and maintain their innocence. The trial is ongoing, with the court continuing to examine the complex claims and interactions surrounding this long-standing case.
The disappearance of Madeleine McCann continues to resonate, a haunting reminder of a family holiday shattered by tragedy. The case unfolded in Portugal, leaving a lasting impact on all involved and sparking international attention.
