A 24-year-old Polish woman claims she may be Madeleine McCann, alleging she stalked the McCanns due to identity confusion and trauma, while denying malicious intent.

Julia Wandelt, a 24-year-old Polish woman, testified in Leicester Crown Court during her trial for allegedly stalking Madeleine McCann’s parents, claiming she believes she may be the missing child due to childhood trauma, a suspect sketch resembling her abuser, and a shared surname. She said she contacted the McCanns only after exhausting Interpol and charities, denied seeking attention or money, and expressed sympathy for their pain. Wandelt criticized police for dismissing her without a DNA test, claimed she faced threats and a rumored bounty, and said her actions stemmed from a desperate need to understand her identity. Her co-defendant, Karen Spragg, 61, also denies the stalking charge. The trial continues.