Fil-Am husband found guilty in murder of missing Pinay Maya Millete
A California jury has convicted Filipino American Larry Millete of first-degree murder in the death of his wife, Maya Millete, whose disappearance in January 2021 remains unsolved.
Fox 5 San Diego reported that jurors in Chula Vista deliberated for two days before delivering a unanimous guilty verdict for first-degree murder after hearing nearly two months of testimony.
Throughout the trial, prosecutors outlined the deterioration of the Milletes’ marriage and argued that he became increasingly desperate as Maya sought to end their relationship.
According to NBC San Diego, the prosecution’s case relied solely on circumstantial evidence, as investigators have yet to determine the exact circumstances of Maya’s death or recover her remains.
Deputy district attorney Christy Bowles presented digital evidence and witness accounts that allegedly showed Larry turning to online spellcasters, subliminal messages, and surveillance tools in an effort to regain control over his wife and save his marriage. Maya reportedly filed for divorce and was involved in an illicit affair with a co-worker.
Larry has been in custody since October 2021, when he was arrested nine months after Maya disappeared, and could face 25 years to life in prison. His sentencing hearing is yet to be set pending a separate hearing involving an assault weapon charge.
Despite the conviction, Maya’s sister, Maricris Drouaillet, emphasized that the search for her continues.
“Justice probably has been served today, but we still have my sister out there,” she said, urging the public to help bring Maya home to her three children.
Maya, a Filipina, was allegedly killed by her husband after disappearing on Jan. 7, 2021. Five years later, her body is still yet to be found as of writing.
