Au pair in Virginia double murder sentenced to 10 years in prison

Juliana Peres Magalhães, a Brazilian au pair, was sentenced to 10 years in prison with two years of probation for her involvement in a double murder plot in northern Virginia. She had participated in the murders of Joseph Ryan and Brendan Banfield’s wife, Christine Banfield, inside the Banfield home on February 24, 2023.

During the trial, evidence emerged that indicated Magalhães and Banfield were having an affair and had conspired to kill Christine. They had created a fake profile for Christine on a social media site for sexual fetishes to lure Ryan into their plot. Ryan fell for the scheme and engaged in communication with the fake profile, where they crafted a rape fantasy scenario using dangerous items.

After pleading guilty to manslaughter in 2024, Magalhães received the maximum sentence of 10 years in prison. She expressed remorse during her sentencing, acknowledging the pain she caused to the victims’ families. Magalhães claimed she had changed during her time in jail and regretted her actions deeply.

In contrast, Banfield maintained his innocence throughout the trial, but was found guilty on all charges, including aggravated murder and possession of a firearm. He faces life in prison without parole, as Virginia had abolished the death penalty in 2021.

During Magalhães’ sentencing, victim impact statements from Ryan’s family highlighted the devastating loss they experienced. His mother, Deirdre Fisher, shared how she still talks to her son every day near the Christmas tree that holds his urn. Sangeeta Ryan, Joe’s aunt, described him as a loving and caring individual who was taken too soon.

While Magalhães eventually came forward with the truth, the family members expressed that her actions were not heroic. They believed that if she had not participated in the plot, both lives could have been saved. The sentencing for Banfield is scheduled for May 8, where he will likely face a lifetime in prison for his crimes.