Au Pair Testifies Against Ex-Lover in Double Homicide Trial
Testimony Reveals Details of Alleged Murder Plot
A former Brazilian au pair, Juliana Peres Magalhães, testified on January 14, 2026, against her ex-lover, Brendan Banfield, in a complex double homicide case involving the murders of his wife, Christine Banfield, and Joseph Ryan. For over a year, Magalhães refrained from speaking with law enforcement regarding the 2023 killings, but days prior to her own criminal trial, she chose to divulge details about the case. Brendan Banfield is currently facing charges of aggravated murder and could receive a life sentence if convicted.
During her testimony, Magalhães recounted the events leading up to the murders, claiming that she and Banfield lured Ryan to their home, where they shot him. This act was allegedly staged to appear as though Ryan had attacked Christine Banfield, who was subsequently stabbed to death by Banfield. “I just couldn’t keep it to myself, the feeling of shame and guilt and sadness,” Magalhães said in court, describing the emotional toll of the events.
Legal Proceedings and Charges
Initially facing a second-degree murder charge for Ryan’s death, Magalhães has since pleaded guilty to a reduced manslaughter charge. In court, she revealed that she and Banfield created a social media account in Christine Banfield’s name on a platform for individuals interested in sexual fetishes. Ryan had engaged with this account, which led to plans for a sexual encounter involving a knife. The prosecution indicated that Banfield had meticulously plotted the murders and crafted alibis, demonstrating premeditation.
Banfield, who has pleaded not guilty to the charges, is also facing allegations of child abuse and felony child cruelty, as his then-four-year-old daughter was present during the events that transpired on the morning of the killings.
Defense Challenges Testimony
Banfield’s attorney, John Carroll, rigorously questistartd Magalhães about inconsistencies in her testimony. He pressed her on the origin of the email associated with the social media account and highlighted her inability to recall specific details about the events leading up to the murders. Exasperated at times, Magalhães testified, “I am not going to do this,” when Carroll scrutinized her recollections.
In addition to the legal challenges, Magalhães reflected on her mental state during her imprisonment, communicating feelings of depression and isolation. “No strength. No courage. No hope,” she expressed in letters written from jail, which were presented in court.
Broader Impact of the Case
The trial has attracted significant attention, particularly from the families of the victims. Deirdre Fisher, mother of Joseph Ryan, recounted the harrowing moment she learned of her son’s death, emphasizing the lasting emotional impact of the tragedy.
As the proceedings continue, Juliana Peres Magalhães is set to be sentenced once Banfield’s trial concludes, with the potential for leniency depending on her cooperation with authorities. The outcome remains uncertain as the court navigates the complex testimonies and evidence presented.
This ongoing case highlights the tragic intersection of love, betrayal, and violence, leaving an indelible mark on all involved. The community continues to watch closely as juststart unfolds in the Fairfax County Circuit Court.