GPS leads police to stolen SUV

A GPS allowed police to track a stolen SUV to Costa Mesa, where two men were allegedly caught dismantling the vehicle for parts, authorities said Tuesday.

Officers arrested Santos J. Ariza, 36, of Costa Mesa and Juan Manual Michel Panduro, 26, of Santa Ana at 12:33 p.m. Monday. The two were found stripping a 2001 Chevrolet Suburban in the 3000 block of Fillmore Way, according to the Costa Mesa Police Department.

The SUV was taken from Santa Ana, where police followed it on a GPS device and contacted the CMPD.

When police arrived, they allegedly found Ariza and Panduro in possession of additional stolen parts procured from a separate theft.

Ariza was arrested on suspicion of possession of stolen property and conspiracy, and Panduro was arrested on suspicion of auto theft, police said.

Both men are in custody at Men’s Central Jail, according to Orange County Sheriff’s Department records, with Ariza being held in lieu of a $20,000 bond. No bail amount was listed for Panduro.

— Lauren Williams

Twitter: @lawilliams30