ALBUQUERQUE, NEW MEXICO – An Albuquerque man has been sentenced to more than two decades in prison after admitting he attacked his aunt, set her home on fire, and later used her debit card across multiple states.
According to court records, Richard Seago pleaded guilty to multiple felony charges, including attempted first‑degree murder, arson causing more than $20,000 in damage, aggravated battery resulting in great bodily harm, and unlawful use or theft of an ATM or debit card.
The case stems from an August 2025 incident in which Seago’s aunt called law enforcement for help. Responding officers reported finding her on the ground inside her smoke‑filled home, suffering from significant injuries while the residence burned around her. Fire damage was extensive, and investigators determined the blaze had been intentionally set.
While the victim was hospitalized, investigators say Seago traveled through several states using her debit card, withdrawing more than $2,000 in cash. Court documents note that during this period, Seago made no attempt to hide his identity and left an electronic trail through the withdrawals.
Authorities say Seago later called 911 and confessed, providing details about both the attack and the fire. That call became a key piece of evidence in the case.
During sentencing, Judge Britt Baca imposed 22.5 years in prison, the maximum allowed under New Mexico law for the combination of charges. The court emphasized the severity of the attack, the life‑threatening circumstances of the arson, and the subsequent exploitation of the victim while she remained in the hospital.
The victim’s current condition has not been publicly released, and no additional family statements have been filed with the court.
The case is now closed following Seago’s sentencing, but restitution and post‑release supervision requirements will be determined at a later date.
