Federal immigration agents arrested an illegal immigrant who was tackled and zip-tied by California neighbors after allegedly attempting to start fires with a blowtorch during last year’s devastating wildfires. Juan Manuel Sierra-Leyva, 34, was taken into ICE custody immediately after being released from Van Nuys Jail on Thursday.
Neighbors Stop Arson Attempt
Security camera footage from January 10, 2025, captured the dramatic moment Woodland Hills residents chased down Sierra-Leyva as he allegedly used a blowtorch to ignite garbage and discarded Christmas trees. Resident Renata Grinshpun heard someone screaming about a man trying to start a fire. She witnessed Sierra-Leyva holding what appeared to be a propane tank or flamethrower as he torched debris in the street. Multiple neighbors swarmed the suspect as he attempted to escape on a bicycle, restraining him with zip ties and rope until police arrived.
Los Angeles Police Department officers arrested Sierra-Leyva for a felony probation violation and suspicion of arson. The major crimes squad investigated him as a possible arson suspect, though no immediate arson charges were filed. Records from the Los Angeles District Attorney’s office show no case against him, and it remains unclear whether formal arson charges were ever pursued.
Lengthy Criminal History Revealed
ICE officials disclosed that Sierra-Leyva has an extensive criminal record spanning more than three years in American jails. His rap sheet includes convictions for aggravated assault, trespassing, amphetamine possession, property damage, violating court orders, and disturbing the peace. Records confirm he was convicted of assault with a deadly weapon in Los Angeles County in 2023. Federal authorities state Sierra-Leyva illegally crossed into the United States near Tecate, California, in 2009.
Sanctuary Policies Under Scrutiny
ICE placed an immigration detainer on Sierra-Leyva in January 2025, requesting local authorities keep him in custody for deportation. California officials refused to honor the detainer under the state’s sanctuary law, which prohibits using state resources to assist federal immigration enforcement. The 2017 law has sparked ongoing debate about public safety versus immigration protection. Los Angeles enacted additional measures in 2024 barring city resources from supporting federal immigration operations. Mayor Karen Bass implemented policies preventing ICE agents from using city facilities and imposing fees on property owners who cooperate with federal immigration enforcement. Federal authorities are now processing Sierra-Leyva for removal from the United States.