Brazilian Au Pair Receives 10-Year Sentence for Fairfax County Double Murder
A Brazilian au pair has been sentenced to 10 years in prison for her involvement in a double murder in Fairfax County, Virginia. Juliana Peres Magalhães was convicted of manslaughter for her role in the deaths of Joseph Ryan and Christine Banfield, both slain under shocking circumstances in February 2023.
Details of the Case
The violent crime involved a plot that Magalhães orchestrated alongside her lover, who was Christine Banfield’s husband. On February 2023, Joseph Ryan was lured to the Banfield residence under false pretenses. He was promised a meeting that turned into a tragic confrontation.
Sentence Issued
Fairfax County Chief Circuit Court Judge Penney Azcarate imposed the maximum 10-year sentence after rejecting suggestions from both the prosecution and Magalhães’ defense team for a lesser penalty. In a stern statement, Judge Azcarate emphasized the gravity of Magalhães’ actions and the pain it inflicted on the victims’ families.
Judge’s Rationale
- The judge highlighted the intentionality and calculated violence of the crime.
- She noted that the case involved a high degree of disregard for human life.
- Magalhães had initially faced a more severe charge of second-degree murder but accepted a plea deal to testify against her lover.
The Testimony
During the trial, Magalhães recounted how she and Banfield created a false identity on a fetish website to lure Ryan. The horrific details included an account of the double murder, where Ryan was shot and Christine was stabbed as she tried to intervene.
Victim Impact Statements
Emotional testimony from victim Joseph Ryan’s family underscored the tragedy of the situation. His mother, Deirdre Fisher, recalled sleepless nights and intense grief following her son’s brutal murder. She described how Ryan’s life was discarded by the perpetrators.
Family Descriptions of Ryan
- Ryan was deeply caring, regularly assisting his elderly grandmother.
- He had a passion for video games and mixed martial arts.
- The family highlighted his kindness, particularly in rescuing neglected animals.
Future Proceedings
Christine Banfield’s husband faces more severe charges, including life imprisonment, with sentencing scheduled for May 2024. His trial will also address additional charges related to the murder and child endangerment incidents surrounding the case.
Final Apologies
In court, Magalhães expressed remorse, stating her understanding of the pain caused to the families and hoping for eventual forgiveness. However, the judge’s comments and the family’s testimonies reflected the weight of her actions and the long-lasting impact on victims’ loved ones.
This case underscores the tragic consequences of violence and betrayal within domestic relationships, prompting a broader discussion on safety and accountability in similar situations.
