Day 9 of Larry Millete Murder Trial: Attorneys Clash Over Questioning; Lead Investigator Returns to Stand

The ninth day of the Larry Millete murder trial resumed Tuesday morning in a Fresno County courtroom, but proceedings began without the jury present. Instead, the prosecution and defense engaged in a heated, 40-minute debate over permissible lines of questioning, leaving all parties visibly frustrated.

At the center of the dispute was the man Maya Millete was accused of having an affair with. Judge Enrique Camarena had previously ruled on third-party culpability, barring the defense from arguing that another person is responsible for the crime Larry Millete is accused of.

Defense attorney Colby Ryan argued Tuesday that his team is not trying to point the finger at someone else but rather questioning the thoroughness of the investigation after Maya was reported missing. "The line of questioning isn't being used to point the finger at someone," Ryan said.

Deputy District Attorney Christy Bowles countered that there is "no evidence" connecting Maya's alleged affair partner to any crime in this case. Judge Camarena told the attorneys they had already spent ample time on the matter, including on Monday afternoon, and that they were going in circles.

He added that his decision on third-party culpability had been clear.

The court took a 15-minute break and planned to bring the jury in around 10 a.m. The lead investigator is expected to return to the stand as testimony continues.