Maya Millete's Remains Still Missing As Courtroom Drama Unfolds at Sentencing

The search for Maya Millete’s remains continues five years after her disappearance, even as her ex-husband faces sentencing. Chula Vista Acting Chief Dan Peake confirmed that law enforcement remains committed to finding her body so her children can begin the process of having their mother’s remains. This commitment persists despite the finalization of the legal proceedings against Larry Millete.

Tensions defined the courtroom atmosphere during the sentencing hearing. Members of both Maya’s and Larry’s families took the floor to offer their perspectives. After Maya’s relatives delivered emotional statements, Millete’s attorney requested time for his family to speak. Millete’s mother, father, and aunt each addressed the judge in his support.

The hearing was abruptly halted by a medical incident involving Benito Millete, Larry’s father. Prosecutors had just objected to a statement made by Benito when he called for a medical response. Witnesses heard Benito announce that he needed a doctor due to a pacemaker issue. He was subsequently removed from the room on a stretcher.

Larry Millete later spoke directly to the court. He characterized himself as a decent and good husband, emphasizing that he was not a monster or a bad person. He acknowledged that he was not the best husband but sought to clarify his character for the record.

District Attorney Summer Stephan pushed back against Millete’s self-assessment. She argued that his remarks lacked remorse and failed to address the central concern for Maya’s family: the location of her body. Stephan noted that Millete made no mention of bringing Maya home or allowing his children to have access to her remains.

Following the hearing, a news conference brought together law enforcement officials, attorneys, and Maya’s family. Maricris Drouaillet, Maya’s sister, expressed gratitude to media partners for their assistance during the early stages of the case. She specifically thanked reporter Laura Acevedo for guiding her through her first interview after her sister vanished. Drouaillet stated that the support helped her navigate being in front of a camera for the first time.