Kate and Gerry McCann expressed their lack of satisfaction with the court’s verdict against Julia Wandelt, who was found guilty of falsely claiming to be their missing daughter, Madeleine McCann. Wandelt, 24, has been sentenced to six months in prison for harassing the McCann family and has been issued a restraining order preventing her from approaching Kate and Gerry.
The restraining order was imposed due to the perceived risk of future harassment towards the McCanns by Wandelt. In response to the verdict, Kate and Gerry stated that they did not seek the legal process but only wished for the harassment to cease. They emphasized that they derive no joy from Wandelt’s guilty verdict and hope she receives the necessary support and care without being taken advantage of.
Judge Mrs. Justice Cutts, prior to the sentencing, clarified to Wandelt that she is not Madeleine McCann and criticized her behavior towards the McCanns, highlighting the unwarranted nature of her actions. Wandelt had persistently contacted the McCanns, their friends, and even their children, despite being warned to stop. Additionally, Wandelt had bombarded the couple’s friends with unsettling messages requesting to be connected with Kate and Gerry.
Karen Spragg, who stood trial alongside Wandelt, was acquitted of stalking or harassment charges. Wandelt has been prohibited from entering Leicestershire indefinitely as part of her restraining order, with potential deportation looming.
