Bond denied for Virginia man charged in double homicide that left wife, another man, dead
HERNDON, Va. - A Virginia man, Brendan Banfield, was denied bond on Friday after being indicted earlier this month for the murders of his wife, Christine Banfield, and another man, Joseph Ryan, at the couple’s Fairfax County home.
Banfield’s arrest came nearly a year after Juliana Peres Magalhães, an au pair for the Banfields’ daughter, was charged with second-degree murder in Ryan’s death. During the brief hearing Friday, the defense argued that Banfield is not a flight risk and needs to care for his child.
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Herndon husband charged in double homicide appears in court
Brendan Banfield was arraigned in Fairfax County court Tuesday after his indictment on five counts total for the February 2023 killings of his wife Christine Banfield and Joseph Ryan. Four of the counts are related to the aggravated murder charge, while the fifth count is for felony firearm use. FOX 5's Lili Zheng has the story.
Prosecutors presented photo evidence of Banfield’s relationship with the au pair, noting this was not his first affair. They also highlighted the proximity of three major airports in the Washington, D.C. area, suggesting Banfield could easily flee. Additionally, evidence was shown indicating Banfield was learning Portuguese and preparing for a life in Brazil.
Investigators have interviewed the couple’s daughter, who recounted the events of the morning of the murders.
Banfield could face trial as early as February, but the date is subject to change. Magalhães is scheduled for trial in November.
READ MORE: Trial set for Virginia husband indicted in double homicide of wife, another man