48 Hours Inside The Banfield Trial: Au Pair Testifies
Jan 16, 2026
Michelle Sigona, a producer deeply involved in the Banfield trial, provides a gripping analysis of the case's shocking developments. A family au pair, Juliana Peres Magalhães, reveals her role in an elaborate catfishing plot that aimed to frame Joseph Ryan for a violent attack. With her background in involuntary manslaughter, she uncovers how Brendan Banfield allegedly orchestrated the events leading to the murder of his wife and Ryan. The courtroom drama unfolds through witness testimonies, revealing the complexities of motive and betrayal.
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Alleged Catfishing Murder Plot
- Prosecutors say Brendan and Juliana crafted a catfishing scheme to lure Joseph Ryan into the home using Christine's accounts.
- The alleged plan was to stage a violent encounter so Brendan could appear to save Christine and shift blame to Joe.
Using Victim's Devices To Build A Trail
- The prosecution says messages were sent from Christine's devices while she remained inside the house to create a believable trail.
- Using her phone and laptop at home was meant to tie the communications to Christine and avoid suspicion.
How The Day Allegedly Unfolded
- On Brendan's birthday the scheme allegedly unfolded with a fake zoo outing while Joe arrived at the house.
- Juliana testified she watched Brendan shoot Joe, then later saw him stab Christine before she fired one shot at Joe.