Press Article: Fairfax County Au Pair Pleads Guilty to Manslaughter in Double Homicide Case
FAIRFAX COUNTY, Va. – In a tragic turn of events, Juliana Peres Magalhães, 24, has pleaded guilty to manslaughter in the February 2023 shooting death of Joseph Ryan, 39, in Herndon, Virginia. The incident occurred at the residence where Magalhães worked as an au pair for Brendan and Christine Banfield. Following her arrest on October 19, 2023, she was initially charged with second-degree murder and the use of a firearm in the commission of a felony.
Joseph Ryan, a resident of Springfield, was fatally shot at the Banfield household. Details emerging from the investigation suggest a possible conspiracy involving Magalhães and Brendan Banfield, 39, who reportedly embarked on a romantic relationship in August 2022 prior to the incidents. Fairfax County Deputy Commonwealth’s Attorney Eric Clingan revealed that the pair traveled to New York City together and shared romantic photos in the months leading up to the shootings.
The legal proceedings have unfolded rapidly, with Magalhães facing a maximum sentence of 10 years for her manslaughter plea, scheduled for sentencing on March 21, 2025. Meanwhile, Brendan Banfield has been indicted on four counts of aggravated murder, including charges related to the deaths of both Joseph Ryan and his wife, Christine Banfield, aged 37. He faces a potential life sentence, and his trial is set to commence on February 3, 2025.
The case has captured the community’s attention, raising questions about the nature of the relationships involved and the circumstances surrounding the tragic events. As the proceedings move forward, more details are expected to emerge, shedding light on this complex and heartbreaking situation.
Source
Photo credit www.fox5dc.com