Au Pair Sentenced to 10 Years for Role in Virginia Double Murder

Judge rejects lenient plea deal, gives maximum sentence to Juliana Peres Magalhaes

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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Juliana Peres Magalhaes, a Brazilian au pair, was sentenced to 10 years in prison for her role in a 2023 double murder in Fairfax, Virginia. Magalhaes had admitted to helping her employer-turned-lover, Brendan Banfield, set up the killings of Banfield's wife, Christine Banfield, and a stranger, Joseph Ryan. Despite a plea deal that would have resulted in time served, the judge rejected the lenient offer and gave Magalhaes the maximum sentence.

Why it matters

This case highlights the complexities of plea bargaining and sentencing in high-profile murder cases, where judges may choose to disregard recommended sentences in favor of harsher punishments they deem more appropriate. It also raises questions about the role of accomplices in violent crimes and how much culpability they should bear.

The details

Magalhaes admitted that she and Banfield created a fake online profile to lure Ryan to the Banfield home, where Banfield fatally stabbed his wife and shot Ryan. Magalhaes said she also shot Ryan when she saw him still moving on the ground. Magalhaes had initially faced a second-degree murder charge but pleaded guilty to manslaughter last fall in exchange for her cooperation and testimony against Banfield, who was convicted of aggravated murder.

  • The murders took place in 2023.
  • Magalhaes pleaded guilty to manslaughter last fall.
  • Banfield is scheduled to be sentenced on May 8, 2026.

The players

Juliana Peres Magalhaes

A Brazilian au pair who admitted to helping her employer-turned-lover, Brendan Banfield, set up the killings of Banfield's wife and a stranger.

Brendan Banfield

Magalhaes' employer-turned-lover, who was convicted of aggravated murder for fatally stabbing his wife and shooting the stranger.

Christine Banfield

Brendan Banfield's wife, who was killed in the 2023 double murder.

Joseph Ryan

A stranger who was lured to the Banfield home and killed in the 2023 double murder.

Penney Azcarate

The Fairfax County Chief Circuit Court Judge who sentenced Magalhaes to the maximum 10-year sentence, rejecting the lenient plea deal.

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What they’re saying

“Let's get this straight, you do not deserve anything other than incarceration and a life of reflection on what you have done to the victim and this family. May it weigh heavily on your soul.”

— Penney Azcarate, Fairfax County Chief Circuit Court Judge (WTOP)

What’s next

Brendan Banfield is scheduled to be sentenced on May 8, 2026, and is expected to receive a mandatory sentence of life without parole for his conviction on aggravated murder charges.

The takeaway

This case highlights the difficult balance judges must strike between lenient plea deals and harsher sentences, especially in high-profile murder cases where the public may demand more severe punishments. It also underscores the complexities of accomplice liability and the degree to which individuals should be held accountable for their roles in violent crimes.