Maya Millete disappearance: California man Larry Millete charged in missing wife’s murder left a suspicious trail — including a review for a spellcaster

When Maya Millete, a mother of three vanished from her home in Chula Vista, California, in January 2021, her friends and family soon became suspicious of her husband Larry. The couple had been having marital problems for the past year and Maya had indicated she wanted to leave the marriage.

As investigators looked into the case, they say they learned that Larry had grown desperate for her to stay and had turned to some unusual methods.

“There are people on the internet that’ll sell you for five bucks, you know, how to make a spell that will get her to be attracted to you. …  And that’s what he tried to do,” said Billy Little, a former criminal defense investigator for the U.S. Navy, who helped Maya’s family in the early days of the investigation. Little says Larry had contacted numerous spellcasters and even wrote a review for one.

“And he writes of this spellcaster … ‘She is kind, professional and courteous. My casting has not yet manifested, but I’m really hoping and counting on it.’ … leaving a review like one would leave on Yelp for a food order,” “48 Hours” contributor Jonathan Vigliotti commented.

“Like, it’s an Uber ride. … Like, “Oh, five stars. Good job spellcaster,” said Little.

“So, he’s not quite as smart as he thinks he is. He doesn’t realize that all of that stuff is pointing the finger at him.” Little added.

Larry Millete says his wife left to start a new life.  

Larry Millete was arrested for his wife’s murder in October 2021 and has pleaded not guilty. On July 9, 2026, a jury found Larry Millete guilty of first-degree murder in the death of Maya Millete.  

In August 2024, a judge granted custody of Maya’s three children to her sister, Maricris. 

Maya Millete has never been found.

If you have information on the case, contact the Chula Vista Police Department at 619-691-5139.