The homeless man tackled and zip-tied by residents in Woodland Hills, who claim he was attempting to start fires with a blowtorch near a Los Angeles wildfire, is an illegal immigrant likely shielded by California’s sanctuary city status, according to sources.

The suspect, Juan Manuel Sierra-Leyva, a Mexican national in the U.S. illegally, is under investigation for possible arson. However, LAPD Assistant Chief Dominic Choi stated that there isn’t enough immediate evidence to pursue arson charges.

Three days ago, ICE placed a detainer request on Sierra-Leyva, but with California’s sanctuary state law in place, it is unlikely to be honored, sources said. He remains in custody for a felony probation violation, though the details of his previous conviction were not disclosed.

Residents of Woodland Hills chased and detained Sierra-Leyva after reportedly witnessing him torching old Christmas trees and debris with a “flamethrower.” One resident described the harrowing scene, saying, “Put it down!”

Due to sanctuary policies implemented by LA city council and Governor Gavin Newsom, local law enforcement has been criticized for limited communication with federal agencies like ICE, which has led to many undocumented individuals, including those with criminal histories, evading federal oversight.

Sierra-Leyva’s lengthy criminal record includes multiple convictions, including assault with a deadly weapon in 2023, and he has spent over two years in jail. His immigration status and prior offenses have added to the ongoing debate surrounding sanctuary policies and public safety.