In a dramatic turn at Leicester Crown Court, Cardiff’s Karen Spragg, 61, has been found not guilty of stalking or harassing Madeleine McCann’s parents. Karen, from Caerau, was visibly emotional, bursting into tears as the verdicts were announced after an intense five-week trial.
However, 24-year-old Julia Wandelt from Poland wasn’t as fortunate. She was found guilty of harassing the McCann family. Wandelt sparked controversy by falsely claiming she was Madeleine, even appearing at the McCann family home requesting a DNA test. While she avoided a stalking charge, her harassment conviction relates to over 60 messages and calls to Mrs McCann in one day alone, recounting supposed memories of her abduction.
The court unveiled Wandelt’s various claims, including having memories influenced by hypnosis sessions about living with the McCanns as a child. Her bizarre accusations drew gasps and disbelief, especially when she relayed tales of feeding Madeleine’s brother, Sean, and playing childhood games with the family.
As the news broke in the court, Wandelt gasped, and Karen cried, as they sat holding hands. Though the maximum sentence for harassment is six months, Wandelt has already spent more time in custody awaiting trial.
This case has captivated many, and the proceedings were brought to a close with a word of appreciation from the judge to the jury for their careful consideration of the evidence. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.