Attorneys representing an au pair accused of being involved in a tragic double homicide in Northern Virginia have taken action to prevent the testimony their client provided to officers at the scene of the crime from being used in court.
According to prosecutors, Brendan Banfield and Juliana Peres Magalhaes conspired to kill Banfield’s wife, Christine. Allegedly, the two suspects had been engaged in a romantic relationship for several months leading up to the murders of Christine Banfield and Joseph Ryan in February 2023 at the Banfields’ residence in Herndon. It is believed that the suspects enticed Ryan to the home using a sex fetish website before carrying out the heinous act.
Christine Banfield was discovered fatally stabbed inside the residence, while Ryan was found shot in close proximity. Peres Magalhaes recounted to Fairfax County police that she and Brendan Banfield encountered Ryan attacking Christine in the bedroom, and that Brendan shot and injured Ryan in response. The suspects allegedly instructed Peres Magalhaes to fetch another firearm so they could shoot Ryan once more.
During the recent hearing, Peres Magalhaes’ legal team argued that her statements to the police should be invalidated due to the allegedly improper manner in which she was taken into custody. They cited body camera footage where Peres Magalhaes is heard questioning whether she was permitted to remain at the scene. On the other hand, the prosecution contended that Fairfax County police acted appropriately and compassionately towards Peres Magalhaes, directing her to leave for her own safety and to ensure the well-being of the Banfields’ young daughter.
The decision on whether the au pair’s testimony will be excluded from the case is anticipated to be rendered by the judge next week. Last year, Peres Magalhaes was charged with second-degree murder in connection to Ryan’s death, while Brendan Banfield was recently indicted on multiple charges, including four counts of aggravated murder and the use of a firearm to commit a felony.
As the legal proceedings continue, the community eagerly awaits the outcome of this complex and tragic case. Sign up for News4’s email alerts to stay informed about the latest developments in this and other breaking news stories.