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Former Talent Manager Robert Baker Sentenced to Life in Prison for Murder; Victim's Wife Also Convicted in Deadly Love Triangle
Robert Baker, a former talent manager, was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole after pleading no contest to the 2017 murder of celebrity hairstylist Fabio Sementilli. The case took a further dramatic turn when Sementilli's wife, Monica, was also convicted for her role in the murder plot.
In July 2023, Baker pleaded no contest to first-degree murder and conspiracy to commit murder, admitting to special circumstance allegations of murder for financial gain and lying in wait.[1] This plea deal meant he avoided a potential death sentence but would spend the rest of his life in prison.[2]
The investigation revealed that Baker and Monica Sementilli were having an affair and conspired to kill Fabio Sementilli to collect on a $1.6 million life insurance policy.[1][2] Prosecutors presented evidence of their ongoing relationship, even after they were incarcerated, which they argued demonstrated a committed murder conspiracy.[3] This included love letters and recorded conversations while in jail.[3]
Following Baker's plea, Monica Sementilli's trial proceeded separately. Baker testified in her defense, claiming that he acted alone in the murder and that Monica had no involvement.[4][5][6] He told the jury he murdered Fabio because he was tired of sharing Monica and wanted her for himself.[5]
However, the prosecution vigorously cross-examined Baker, highlighting numerous inconsistencies in his testimony and previous statements.[5][7][8] They presented evidence of extensive communication between Baker and Monica Sementilli leading up to the murder, as well as financial transactions that suggested a coordinated plan.[7]
In April 2025, a jury found Monica Sementilli, 53, guilty of murder and conspiracy.[3][4] The jury also found true the special circumstances of murder for financial gain and murder while lying in wait.[3] Subsequently, in June 2025, she was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole.[3][4]
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