Opening statements are set for Tuesday in the trial of Brendan Banfield, accused of double murder in an alleged plot involving his family’s au pair. Banfield faces charges related to the deaths of his wife, Christine Banfield, and Joseph Ryan. He has pleaded not guilty to aggravated murder and firearm charges, risking life imprisonment if convicted.
Details of the Case
The trial is expected to last approximately four weeks. Jury selection took place on Monday, resulting in 12 jurors and four alternates ready to hear the case. Virginia prosecutors claim that Banfield and the Brazilian au pair, Juliana Peres Magalhães, carried out the murders amid an extramarital affair.
Alleged Conspiracy and Events Leading to the Murders
According to the prosecution, the couple’s scheme included elements of BDSM role play, firearms training, and false emergency calls, all aimed at eliminating Christine Banfield and framing Joseph Ryan. Peres Magalhães, who initially faced murder charges, pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter in October 2024. She agreed to cooperate with prosecutors in exchange for a recommendation of time served.
The tragic events began on February 24, 2023, when 911 calls led police to the Banfields’ home in Herndon, Virginia. Christine, 37, was found dead from stab wounds, and 39-year-old Ryan had fatal gunshot wounds, as reported by Fairfax County Police Chief Kevin Davis.
Sequence of Events on the Day of the Incident
- Peres Magalhães began working as the family au pair in late 2021.
- An extramarital relationship between Banfield and Peres Magalhães reportedly began in August 2022.
- Plans to murder Christine and Ryan were allegedly expressed in the fall of 2022.
- Banfield reportedly lured Ryan to his home under false pretenses.
During the attack, Banfield confronted Ryan, who was allegedly restraining Christine. Prosecutors state that Banfield claimed to be a police officer before shooting Ryan in the head. Following this, Banfield allegedly stabbed his wife while Peres Magalhães shot Ryan again after witnessing him still moving.
Child Neglect Charges
In December 2024, Banfield also faced charges of felony child abuse related to the incident as his four-year-old daughter was present during the altercations. The prosecution has outlined a chilling narrative of betrayal, deceit, and violence.
