Man arrested near LA fires with possible blowtorch is an illegal immigrant: ICE sources
A shocking video went viral showing a man being confronted and apprehended by Los Angeles residents, who eventually handed him over to the police for allegedly carrying a blowtorch. According to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) sources speaking to Fox News, the man in question is an illegal immigrant from Mexico named Juan Manuel Sierra-Leyva.
The incident took place near the Kenneth Fire, where the man was seen holding a torch head and a yellow fuel tank before being tackled to the ground by a group of residents. While he has not been charged with arson, he is currently in custody due to a probation violation. ICE plans to place a detainer request on him to potentially deport him, although they do not expect this request to be honored due to California being a sanctuary state that limits cooperation with ICE.
Illegal immigration has been a contentious political issue, and with the upcoming change in administration, the Trump administration is expected to launch a large-scale deportation operation. However, the resistance from sanctuary states like California poses a challenge to these efforts.
Law enforcement sources revealed that intentionally setting wildfires is not uncommon, especially during windy conditions that attract serial arsonists. While there is no confirmed connection between the apprehended man and any of the fires in the area, the threat of arson remains a concern for residents and authorities alike.
Some states have expressed willingness to cooperate with deportation efforts targeting violent criminals, while others have pledged to resist such actions. In California, where sanctuary laws and local ordinances restrict ICE cooperation, the Trump administration faces an uphill battle in carrying out its deportation plans.
As investigations continue and the legal process unfolds, the community remains vigilant in ensuring the safety and security of their neighborhoods. The collaboration between residents, law enforcement, and immigration authorities is crucial in upholding the rule of law and protecting the well-being of all individuals in the community.
