Brazilian au pair gets 10-year sentence for killing Joseph Ryan in murder plot against lover's wife - AP News
AP News
February 13, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
A Brazilian au pair has been sentenced to 10 years in prison for killing Joseph Ryan, a father of three, as part of a murder plot targeting her lover's wife. The defendant, identified only as the biological mother of two children, carried out the fatal stabbing in September 2022 near Boston. She acted on behalf of her lover, who was married but sought to separate from his spouse and build a life with her instead. Tragically, the plot unfolded at Ryan's home, where he was found dead after returning early from work.
The au pair initially tried to cover up the crime by claiming it was a burglary, but security footage revealed her involvement. During the trial, DNA evidence tied her to the crime scene, and she showed no remorse during sentencing. The case has sparked headlines for its shocking details and the twisted dynamics of workplace relationships, as Ryan was employed at a tech firm where the au pair and her lover worked.
This story highlights the dangers of workplace romances and the unpredictable consequences when jealousy and betrayal intersect with violence. It serves as a cautionary tale about the potential for hidden motives in seemingly ordinary situations. Readers interested in true crime or high-stakes relationships will find this case particularly compelling, offering insight into how personal vendettas can spiral into fatal acts of violence.
Verticals
newsgeneral
Originally published on AP News on 2/13/2026