SAN ANTONIO Car Theft Ring Busted: Three Suspects Arrested
Arrested Individuals Facing Serious Charges
Three men, George Santibanez (33), Miguel Santibanez (19), and Ethan Soto (23), have been apprehended by Bexar County deputies who have unraveled a car theft ring, operating covertly from a North Side shop. These individuals stand accused of engaging in organized crime, with records from the Bexar County Jail confirming the charges.
Illegal Enterprise Mode of Operation Revealed
Following a meticulous investigation, Bexar County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) obtained compelling evidence suggesting that the suspects had been stealing vehicles, extracting their engines, and installing them into other cars, which were subsequently sold. The theft of a vehicle ranging from $30,000 to $150,000 has been specifically attributed to Ethan Soto, who faces an additional charge of theft. Simultaneously, Miguel Santibanez has been charged with unauthorized use of a vehicle.
Deputies Uncover the Operation’s Nest
BCSO’s thorough investigation led authorities to a property located near the intersection of Basse Road and San Pedro Avenue on February 27. Upon their arrival, deputies made a startling discovery, as the premises harbored seven stolen vehicles, which purportedly belonged to Miguel Santibanez. Furthermore, law enforcement authorities managed to identify several stolen car parts on the premises. The investigation exposed a partially assembled gray Dodge Charger and the theft of its engine.
The Role of George Santibanez and Ethan Soto
Connecting the dots brought George Santibanez and Ethan Soto’s involvement to light as they were linked to the property itself. Startlingly, George Santibanez had publicly posted videos and images directly from inside the notorious shop on social media platforms. Adding to the mounting evidence, phone records revealed George Santibanez’s claim to be an employee of the shop via an Instagram message.
Operational Blunder: Suspect Caught with Tampered VIN
On February 26, authorities flagged down Ethan Soto due to erratic driving and discovered that the vehicle he was operating had a tampered Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Further investigation revealed that the VIN corresponded to a burglarized Dodge Charger, with the vehicle’s main computer system (PCM) stolen.
A Convicted Thief Part of the Fold
Surprisingly, it was discovered that Ethan Soto had previously been shot while attempting to steal a vehicle back in 2023. His past involvement in criminal activities deepens the connections evident throughout the ongoing car theft ring investigation.
Expanding the Scope of the Investigation
One individual believed to be a significant criminal participant remains at large as they continue to sell “swapped” Chrysler and Dodge vehicles at a 50% discount on Instagram. This sale of stolen merchandise amplifies the connections within the wider car theft ring, as it becomes evident that not only were Miguel Santibanez, George Santibanez, and Ethan Soto embroiled in the operation, but three others were conspirators as well.
Disclaimer: The information presented is based on records obtained in 2024 and is accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time of reporting. This article is part of our ongoing coverage of criminal activities in the San Antonio area and will be updated as more information becomes available.
References: Bexar County Jail, Bexar County Sheriff’s Office, Instagram
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