Forensic criminologist responds to ‘hugely significant’ development on disappearance of Madeline McCann

A forensic criminologist who specialises in cold cases has shared her thoughts on what she says is a “hugely significant” development surrounding the disappearance of Madeline McCann.

It’s been reported prosecutors have identified a German man as a formal suspect over the toddler’s disappearance in 2007.

But the news has been met with cynicism by some, with the statute of limitations close to expiring in relation to the case.

Xanthe Mallett is based at the University of Newcastle in NSW and told Neil Mitchell she was taking the developments on face value.

“I’m very hopeful after today’s news that we will be hearing about charges being laid in, literally, the next few days,” she said.

Press PLAY below to hear her views on the news

(Photo by Peter Macdiarmid/Getty Images)