On July 9, 2026, a jury found Larry Millete guilty of first-degree murder in the death of his wife, Maya Millete, who disappeared from their Chula Vista, California, home in January 2021. The case drew attention due to evidence that Larry had sought out spellcasters in an attempt to influence his wife’s behavior before her disappearance.
Part 1: Immediate Action & Core Facts
- Larry Millete was convicted of first-degree murder in the death of his wife, Maya, after a jury trial in July 2026.
- Evidence presented included Larry’s interactions with online spellcasters, where he sought spells to either win back his wife’s affection or harm her as their marital issues escalated.
Part 2: Deeper Dive & Context
Background of the Disappearance
Maya Millete, a mother of three, was last heard from on January 7, 2021, just days before her eldest daughter’s birthday. Her family reported her missing on January 9, as her disappearance was out of character. Larry Millete provided conflicting accounts of her whereabouts, including claims that she had left to start a new life or was hiking.
Investigation and Evidence
Investigators uncovered that Larry had contacted multiple spellcasters online, leaving reviews for their services. One review stated, 'She is kind, professional and courteous. My casting has not yet manifested, but I'm really hoping and counting on it.' This evidence was used to suggest Larry’s growing desperation and potential intent to harm Maya.
Family and Friends’ Perspective
Maya’s family and friends consistently maintained that she would never voluntarily leave her children. Her sister, Maricris Drouaillet, reported her missing and expressed immediate suspicion toward Larry. Maya’s colleagues at the U.S. Navy, where she worked as a contract negotiator, also confirmed her disappearance was uncharacteristic.
Legal Proceedings
Larry Millete was arrested in October 2021 and stood trial for his wife’s murder. The prosecution argued that his behavior, including the spellcaster interactions, demonstrated premeditation. The defense did not present a counter-narrative, and the jury ultimately found him guilty.
Long-Term Implications
The case highlights the role of digital evidence in modern criminal investigations, particularly the use of online interactions as indicators of intent. It also underscores the importance of family and friends in reporting disappearances promptly.