San Jose Man Pleads Guilty to Almaden Valley Post Office Arson

Richard Tillman faces up to 20 years in prison for intentionally setting fire to the post office last July.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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Richard Tillman, a 44-year-old San Jose resident, has pleaded guilty in federal court to setting fire to the Almaden Valley Post Office in July 2025. Tillman admitted that he intentionally rammed his car into the front of the post office and then set it ablaze in order 'to make a point to the United States government'.

Why it matters

The arson attack on the Almaden Valley Post Office caused significant damage, completely destroying the building's lobby and leaving it unavailable to the public since the incident. The prosecution of Tillman highlights the serious consequences for those who commit acts of violence and destruction against government property.

The details

According to prosecutors, Tillman purchased firelogs and lighter fluid in preparation for the attack. He then drove to the post office, rammed his vehicle through the front door, exited the car, spread lighter fluid throughout the vehicle, and threw a lit match inside, causing the fire to quickly spread from the car to the rest of the building.

  • On July 20, 2025, Tillman allegedly set fire to the Almaden Valley Post Office.
  • Tillman was initially charged by a criminal complaint in July 2025.
  • Tillman was indicted by a federal grand jury in August 2025.
  • Tillman pleaded guilty in federal court on February 9, 2026.
  • Tillman is scheduled to be sentenced in April 2026.

The players

Richard Tillman

A 44-year-old San Jose resident who pleaded guilty to setting fire to the Almaden Valley Post Office in July 2025.

Craig H. Missakian

The U.S. Attorney who announced the prosecution, which was the result of an investigation by several law enforcement agencies.

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What they’re saying

“In pleading guilty on Feb. 9, Tillman admitted that he intentionally set the fire in order to 'make a point to the United States government'.”

— Richard Tillman (San Jose Inside)

What’s next

Tillman is scheduled to be sentenced in April 2026 and faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a minimum sentence of 5 years in prison, and a fine of $250,000.

The takeaway

This case highlights the serious consequences for those who commit acts of violence and destruction against government property, as well as the importance of holding individuals accountable for such crimes in order to protect public safety and government infrastructure.