The man also allegedly tried to stab a police officer when police tried to detain him.
Police contained the area and a SWAT was called to the scene. SWAT team officers got onto the 405 Freeway and lifted one of the grates to gain access to the drain, which runs under the freeway.
Officers cornered the suspect in the drain and arrested him about 90 minutes after he disappeared inside.
No one was injured in the incident.