Larry Millete was convicted of first-degree murder in the 2021 disappearance of his wife, Maya Millete, a 39-year-old mother of three last seen in Chula Vista, California. The case, marked by marital strife and allegations of occult activity, led to a years-long investigation before a jury delivered its verdict on July 9, 2026.

The last sighting and initial search

Maya Millete was last captured on surveillance footage arriving at her Chula Vista home in January 2021. Her husband of 21 years, Larry Millete, was the last person to see her alive. When questioned by family, he provided conflicting accounts of her whereabouts. After two days without contact, her sister, Maricris Drouaillet, reported her missing to the Chula Vista Police Department.

Family, friends, and volunteers distributed flyers and conducted searches, including at Mount San Miguel Park. A press conference saw Maricris Drouaillet plead for information: “Please bring her home. If you have any information, please help us find my sister.”

Investigation uncovers marital tensions and occult claims

Billy Little, a former U.S. Navy criminal defense investigator, visited the Millete home on January 11, 2021, noting Larry’s apparent lack of concern and signs the house had been aired out. Authorities executed multiple search warrants, seizing firearms from the property. Little later revealed Larry had purchased online spells—first to rekindle Maya’s affection, then, as tensions escalated, to “punish May and incapacitate her enough so she can’t leave the house.”

By May 7, 2021, a gun violence restraining order forced Larry to surrender additional firearms. Nine months after Maya’s disappearance, he was arrested for her murder, though he maintained her departure was voluntary.

Community efforts and legal resolution

The Help Find Maya group organized weekend searches in areas like Anza-Borrego Desert State Park and Otay Lakes, raising over $50,000 for efforts. In August 2024, custody of Maya’s three children was awarded to her sister, Maricris. The case concluded on July 9, 2026, when a jury found Larry Millete guilty of first-degree murder.

Anyone with information is urged to contact San Diego County Crime Stoppers at 888-580-8477 or the Chula Vista Police Department at 619-691-5139.