Seven tow trucking companies used to be on a rotation for the sheriff's office. Now, only one company gets all the action.
Ray Apodaca is the manager Alba Southwest Wrecker he says that he just wants the rotation back.
"The towing company who was awarded the bid right now is operating without a signed contract. I discovered this the other day when we went to commissioners court that the commissioners we're unaware that this contract had been awarded.One of the commissioners brought up the point, did we sign something," Apodaca said.
The companies are saying they were never notified about the bid or about their termination. The reason for the change? Sheriff Wiles says changing to one company will benefit people by saving them money with a lowered basic tow fee.
Roberto Carrasco from Carrasco Wrecking says he wishes that everyone had the chance to provide their services for a set price.
"If the county would have had the courtesy to sit down with us we could have negotiated any type of contract or agreement. We've been operating with them for over 40 years they could have at least let us know what was going on," Carrasco said.
Sheriff Wiles admits he didn't notify any companies that there would be an opportunity to bid, but says that ethically he didn't think he could after the bid was put out. now, the companies will pursue legal options to get their business back.
Viola Parra from Parra's Wrecker Service says that their business has gone down significantly in the past few weeks.
"Our workload has decreased 50% so it's affecting us a lot," Parra said.
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Friday, September 24, 2010
GREENVILLE -- Eric Dominique Holloway, 23, has been arrested in connection with the murder of Walter Clayton Malloy Sr.
GREENVILLE -- Eric Dominique Holloway, 23, has been arrested in connection with the murder of Walter Clayton Malloy Sr.
Greenville Police arrested Holloway at his home, on the 1000 block of W. 5th Street, just after 4:30 Thursday afternoon.
Holloway had his red and white Buick towed Saturday morning by the victim's towing company, Clay's Wrecker Service, according to police.
Holloway shot Malloy, 59, and the suspect's Buick crashed into one of the company's wreckers, police said.
Police wouldn't confirm that Holloway was behind the wheel but say he was the only person involved with Saturday's murder.
Police interviewed Holloway on the day of the murder but didn't have enough evidence to arrest him then, Greenville Police Chief William Anderson said at a press conference.
Police obtained an arrest warrant Thursday after a tip from Crimestoppers.
Holloway has three prior convictions for assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill, all in 2007; he was out on probation the day Malloy was murdered.
Holloway is expected in court Friday morning, when a judge will likely set a bond.
Greenville Police arrested Holloway at his home, on the 1000 block of W. 5th Street, just after 4:30 Thursday afternoon.
Holloway had his red and white Buick towed Saturday morning by the victim's towing company, Clay's Wrecker Service, according to police.
Holloway shot Malloy, 59, and the suspect's Buick crashed into one of the company's wreckers, police said.
Police wouldn't confirm that Holloway was behind the wheel but say he was the only person involved with Saturday's murder.
Police interviewed Holloway on the day of the murder but didn't have enough evidence to arrest him then, Greenville Police Chief William Anderson said at a press conference.
Police obtained an arrest warrant Thursday after a tip from Crimestoppers.
Holloway has three prior convictions for assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill, all in 2007; he was out on probation the day Malloy was murdered.
Holloway is expected in court Friday morning, when a judge will likely set a bond.
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Proposal changes wrecker rotation
Proposal changes wrecker rotation
Residents voicing their concerns over reduction of towing companies
The TimesStacy Chapman, who owns Expressway Wrecker on Athens Highway with her parents, looks over the inside of a tow truck Tuesday in Gainesville. The Gainesville City Council is considering a proposal to change to a bid contract for two local wrecker companies rather than the current rotation system of 11 companies.View Larger
A large number of Gainesville residents showed up to Tuesday's City Council meeting, including several people frustrated about proposed changes to the city's wrecker services.
At Thursday's work session, Gainesville Police Chief Brian Kelly opened up discussion with council members about moving to a bid contract for two local wrecker companies rather than the current rotation system of 11 companies.
"I want to discuss this with you to get direction. The current system lays responsibility on the police department to set the fees and rotation lists and to inspect the lots," he said Thursday.
"We've seen the complaints increase in the last couple of years, and I want to try to express they are not our wrecker services."
Kelly proposed the change based on a study of surrounding city services, saying the bid system makes the companies more responsible for liability, hours of service and prompt response time.
Local wrecker employees showed up Tuesday to voice their concerns about the idea.
"That would put us out of business," said Stacy Chapman, who owns Expressway Wrecker with her parents.
"All we own is tied up in the business, and the rotation keeps us in business. If you go to bid, it will not only put us out of business, we will ... lose everything that we've worked so hard to build."
Chip Patterson of Patterson Auto & Wrecker Service demanded the wrecker companies meet with Kelly in the next 15 days. Others expressed their surprise.
"We'd like to be in on what's going on," said Mike Holland, owner of Holland Wrecker Service.
"We seem to find out later. If we can figure out the problem, we can deal with it."
City Manager Kip Padgett noted that no official change has been proposed at this time and the idea was opened for discussion because of past issues with wrecker services.
"We just don't understand why you want to change it. We follow the guidelines and don't charge over what the city allows," Chapman said. "It's our livelihood, and I feel like we're left out of the loop a lot."
Kelly said he plans to meet with the companies but brought the idea before the council first to gauge their reactions.
"It's just a proposal, and we've been looking at it for years now, even before I was here," he saidTuesday morning. "But I definitely understand their concern."
Residents voicing their concerns over reduction of towing companies
The TimesStacy Chapman, who owns Expressway Wrecker on Athens Highway with her parents, looks over the inside of a tow truck Tuesday in Gainesville. The Gainesville City Council is considering a proposal to change to a bid contract for two local wrecker companies rather than the current rotation system of 11 companies.View Larger
A large number of Gainesville residents showed up to Tuesday's City Council meeting, including several people frustrated about proposed changes to the city's wrecker services.
At Thursday's work session, Gainesville Police Chief Brian Kelly opened up discussion with council members about moving to a bid contract for two local wrecker companies rather than the current rotation system of 11 companies.
"I want to discuss this with you to get direction. The current system lays responsibility on the police department to set the fees and rotation lists and to inspect the lots," he said Thursday.
"We've seen the complaints increase in the last couple of years, and I want to try to express they are not our wrecker services."
Kelly proposed the change based on a study of surrounding city services, saying the bid system makes the companies more responsible for liability, hours of service and prompt response time.
Local wrecker employees showed up Tuesday to voice their concerns about the idea.
"That would put us out of business," said Stacy Chapman, who owns Expressway Wrecker with her parents.
"All we own is tied up in the business, and the rotation keeps us in business. If you go to bid, it will not only put us out of business, we will ... lose everything that we've worked so hard to build."
Chip Patterson of Patterson Auto & Wrecker Service demanded the wrecker companies meet with Kelly in the next 15 days. Others expressed their surprise.
"We'd like to be in on what's going on," said Mike Holland, owner of Holland Wrecker Service.
"We seem to find out later. If we can figure out the problem, we can deal with it."
City Manager Kip Padgett noted that no official change has been proposed at this time and the idea was opened for discussion because of past issues with wrecker services.
"We just don't understand why you want to change it. We follow the guidelines and don't charge over what the city allows," Chapman said. "It's our livelihood, and I feel like we're left out of the loop a lot."
Kelly said he plans to meet with the companies but brought the idea before the council first to gauge their reactions.
"It's just a proposal, and we've been looking at it for years now, even before I was here," he saidTuesday morning. "But I definitely understand their concern."
NEW INFO: Wrecker Owner Was Shot
NEW INFO: Wrecker Owner Was Shot
Greenville police are releasing more information about the death of Walter Clay Malloy. He is the owner of Clay's Wrecker Service. His son found him dead, outside his business early Saturday morning. Police are now saying Malloy was shot and appears to have died from that gunshot.
The word of Walter Clay Malloy's death spread quickly. When fellow tow truck driver, Danny Anderson, heard the news, he just wanted to know one thing.
"Mainly just how it happened, I was just shocked, really shocked," says Danny Anderson with Anderson & Sons Automotive.
In the 911 tapes released by police, an unidentified male caller says Malloy had just towed a white Buick and the owner wanted it back. The Greenville police say they've recovered a "white buick with red doors" with heavy front-end damage that was seen speeding away from the murder.
But no word on a suspect and with towing, you never know who you will meet next.
"When we leave here on those wreckers we don't know who we will pick up or what we are going to run into," says Susie Haddock, Malloy's cousin and a tow truck driver.
With the amount of people and students in Greenville, parking can be a problem. Most people are towed without issue, but sometimes it can get heated. Something Anderson has experienced first hand.
"They may jump in their car, jump on their car, you never know and sometimes you have to call the police to come over and get things straightened out," tells Anderson.
Greenville police are interviewing everyone towed by Clay's Wrecker Service 24 hours prior to his death. Anderson says the public needs to understand one thing...
"Realize we are just doing a job that somebody is going to do. If it is not us, somebody else is gonna do it, because they need it done," tells Anderson,"You know if you're in the wrong, you're in the wrong and that's life."
And Malloy's life didn't need to end this way.
"My cousin was murdered and we're going to find him," says Haddock.
Greenville police are releasing more information about the death of Walter Clay Malloy. He is the owner of Clay's Wrecker Service. His son found him dead, outside his business early Saturday morning. Police are now saying Malloy was shot and appears to have died from that gunshot.
The word of Walter Clay Malloy's death spread quickly. When fellow tow truck driver, Danny Anderson, heard the news, he just wanted to know one thing.
"Mainly just how it happened, I was just shocked, really shocked," says Danny Anderson with Anderson & Sons Automotive.
In the 911 tapes released by police, an unidentified male caller says Malloy had just towed a white Buick and the owner wanted it back. The Greenville police say they've recovered a "white buick with red doors" with heavy front-end damage that was seen speeding away from the murder.
But no word on a suspect and with towing, you never know who you will meet next.
"When we leave here on those wreckers we don't know who we will pick up or what we are going to run into," says Susie Haddock, Malloy's cousin and a tow truck driver.
With the amount of people and students in Greenville, parking can be a problem. Most people are towed without issue, but sometimes it can get heated. Something Anderson has experienced first hand.
"They may jump in their car, jump on their car, you never know and sometimes you have to call the police to come over and get things straightened out," tells Anderson.
Greenville police are interviewing everyone towed by Clay's Wrecker Service 24 hours prior to his death. Anderson says the public needs to understand one thing...
"Realize we are just doing a job that somebody is going to do. If it is not us, somebody else is gonna do it, because they need it done," tells Anderson,"You know if you're in the wrong, you're in the wrong and that's life."
And Malloy's life didn't need to end this way.
"My cousin was murdered and we're going to find him," says Haddock.
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
MIB SEIZE ALMOST 2 pounds OF COCAINE
Just before 11:30pm Sunday night Montgomery County Precinct 4 Deputy Juan Chapa was patrolling US 59 near Splendora with his K-9 partner Porter. As he approached Splendora he spotted a tan Dodge Mangum which was northbound in the left lane just approaching the construction area. Deputy Chapa noticed the license plates on the car were not visible and that what appeared to be paper tags covered in plastic were being displayed. The plates showed to be Louisiana tags.
Chapa continued to follow as there was not a place in the construction area to make a safe traffic stop. He also observed the vehicle to remain in the left lane forcing vehicles to pass him in the right lane. Once the construction area was cleared Deputy Chapa attempted to pull the Dodge over. The driver continued driving until they reached Fostoria Road at which time he pulled over.
AS he approached the vehicle and asked for identification and insurance. The driver, Frank Henson Moore, age 28 who was actually from Leesville, Louisiana handed Chapa an Alaskan Identification card.
The passenger Frank Henson Coleman, age 47 of Leesville, Louisiana told Chapa they were returning to Louisiana after dropping his wife off at Bush Airport for a trip north.
When Chapa contacted the dispatcher he was advised both men had been handled before on drug charges. He then returned to the men standing behind the vehicle and ask permission to search the vehicle he was told they would not give him permission as they didn’t know what might be in the car.
Chapa then brought his K-9 partner Porter out and walked around the vehicle. It was at this point Porter detected something and a search was conducted of the vehicle. As Chapa looked under the front passenger seat he discovered a purple plastic bag. As he opened it he discovered what appeared to be cocaine.
Both men were arrested and transported to the East Montgomery County jail. Slinky’s Wrecker Service towed the vehicle.
Once at the office the drugs were weighed and totaled 797 grams which is almost two kilos.
Both men have been charged with Aggravated Possession of a Controlled Substance with Intent to Deliver. Since both had prior histories on large drug seizures their bond was set at $500,000 each.
Just before 11:30pm Sunday night Montgomery County Precinct 4 Deputy Juan Chapa was patrolling US 59 near Splendora with his K-9 partner Porter. As he approached Splendora he spotted a tan Dodge Mangum which was northbound in the left lane just approaching the construction area. Deputy Chapa noticed the license plates on the car were not visible and that what appeared to be paper tags covered in plastic were being displayed. The plates showed to be Louisiana tags.
Chapa continued to follow as there was not a place in the construction area to make a safe traffic stop. He also observed the vehicle to remain in the left lane forcing vehicles to pass him in the right lane. Once the construction area was cleared Deputy Chapa attempted to pull the Dodge over. The driver continued driving until they reached Fostoria Road at which time he pulled over.
AS he approached the vehicle and asked for identification and insurance. The driver, Frank Henson Moore, age 28 who was actually from Leesville, Louisiana handed Chapa an Alaskan Identification card.
The passenger Frank Henson Coleman, age 47 of Leesville, Louisiana told Chapa they were returning to Louisiana after dropping his wife off at Bush Airport for a trip north.
When Chapa contacted the dispatcher he was advised both men had been handled before on drug charges. He then returned to the men standing behind the vehicle and ask permission to search the vehicle he was told they would not give him permission as they didn’t know what might be in the car.
Chapa then brought his K-9 partner Porter out and walked around the vehicle. It was at this point Porter detected something and a search was conducted of the vehicle. As Chapa looked under the front passenger seat he discovered a purple plastic bag. As he opened it he discovered what appeared to be cocaine.
Both men were arrested and transported to the East Montgomery County jail. Slinky’s Wrecker Service towed the vehicle.
Once at the office the drugs were weighed and totaled 797 grams which is almost two kilos.
Both men have been charged with Aggravated Possession of a Controlled Substance with Intent to Deliver. Since both had prior histories on large drug seizures their bond was set at $500,000 each.
Initial autopsy inconclusive
An autopsy performed Monday by the regional medical examiner shed no light how a local tow service operator died Saturday. An employee with the Forensic Pathology Department within East Carolina University’s Brody School of Medicine said the cause of death for Walter Clayton Malloy Sr., 59, is still listed as pending because no definite cause could be identified.
She said the medical examiner was waiting on other information before making a final assessment.
The body of Malloy, owner of Clay’s Wrecker Service, was discovered by his son just before 7 a.m. Saturday behind the Chestnut Street office.
The Greenville Police Department is handling the death investigation. Investigators have not yet classified the death as a homicide.
Malloy family members have said they believe Malloy was killed.
Previous story:
The son of a tow service operator found dead at their Greenville business early Saturday said that he believes his father was murdered, though police haven't declared it a homicide yet.
Walter Clayton Malloy Sr., 59, was found dead just before 7 a.m. outside Clay's Wrecker Service, 2016 Chestnut St., according to the Greenville Police Department.
Walter Clayton Malloy Jr., who goes by Clay Malloy, said Sunday that he spoke to his father shortly before finding his body.
Their family towing service is open 24 hours daily, Clay Malloy said, and they had a driver quit about 4 a.m. Saturday, so his father came in to help. As Clay Malloy headed out to tow a car illegally parked at an apartment complex, he invited his father to ride along.
“But he said he'd just stay behind,” Clay Malloy said. “He was always looking out for me and told me I'd have more room that way.”
Clay Malloy returned to the office less than 15 minutes later and said he “found him lifeless.”
The brother of Walter Clayton Malloy Sr., Tom Malloy, said Saturday there may have been a confrontation before his brother's death. Clay Malloy said Sunday that he isn't sure about that account.
“My father wasn't the type to have caused a confrontation,” he said. “He would have shut the gate and called the police.”
Regardless, Clay Malloy said his family has come together in mourning.
“All of us are sticking together,” he said. “We may argue and fuss but as a family, you can't beat us.”
He added that the family appreciates the hundreds of friends who have called or stopped by to express their condolences.
Greenville Police Department spokesman Cpl. Kip Gaskins said Sunday afternoon that investigators have no new information to release.
“It has not been ruled a homicide yet,” Gaskins said. “Nothing has changed since yesterday. We're not ruling anything out, of course, but we have no confirmed evidence at this point that it was actually a homicide.”
Clay Malloy said he has faith in the justice system, particularly because of his relationship with Pitt County sheriff-elect Neil Elks and his wife, Connie, who is a Greenville police detective.
“It won't bring my father back but ... I have faith in the sheriff and Clark Everett,” he said. “Justice will be served. Without a shadow of a doubt.”
Clay Malloy asks anyone with information about what happened to call Pitt-Greenville CrimeStoppers at 758-7777.
A funeral for Walter Clayton Malloy Sr. is scheduled for 11 a.m. Wednesday at Wilkerson Funeral Home.
She said the medical examiner was waiting on other information before making a final assessment.
The body of Malloy, owner of Clay’s Wrecker Service, was discovered by his son just before 7 a.m. Saturday behind the Chestnut Street office.
The Greenville Police Department is handling the death investigation. Investigators have not yet classified the death as a homicide.
Malloy family members have said they believe Malloy was killed.
Previous story:
The son of a tow service operator found dead at their Greenville business early Saturday said that he believes his father was murdered, though police haven't declared it a homicide yet.
Walter Clayton Malloy Sr., 59, was found dead just before 7 a.m. outside Clay's Wrecker Service, 2016 Chestnut St., according to the Greenville Police Department.
Walter Clayton Malloy Jr., who goes by Clay Malloy, said Sunday that he spoke to his father shortly before finding his body.
Their family towing service is open 24 hours daily, Clay Malloy said, and they had a driver quit about 4 a.m. Saturday, so his father came in to help. As Clay Malloy headed out to tow a car illegally parked at an apartment complex, he invited his father to ride along.
“But he said he'd just stay behind,” Clay Malloy said. “He was always looking out for me and told me I'd have more room that way.”
Clay Malloy returned to the office less than 15 minutes later and said he “found him lifeless.”
The brother of Walter Clayton Malloy Sr., Tom Malloy, said Saturday there may have been a confrontation before his brother's death. Clay Malloy said Sunday that he isn't sure about that account.
“My father wasn't the type to have caused a confrontation,” he said. “He would have shut the gate and called the police.”
Regardless, Clay Malloy said his family has come together in mourning.
“All of us are sticking together,” he said. “We may argue and fuss but as a family, you can't beat us.”
He added that the family appreciates the hundreds of friends who have called or stopped by to express their condolences.
Greenville Police Department spokesman Cpl. Kip Gaskins said Sunday afternoon that investigators have no new information to release.
“It has not been ruled a homicide yet,” Gaskins said. “Nothing has changed since yesterday. We're not ruling anything out, of course, but we have no confirmed evidence at this point that it was actually a homicide.”
Clay Malloy said he has faith in the justice system, particularly because of his relationship with Pitt County sheriff-elect Neil Elks and his wife, Connie, who is a Greenville police detective.
“It won't bring my father back but ... I have faith in the sheriff and Clark Everett,” he said. “Justice will be served. Without a shadow of a doubt.”
Clay Malloy asks anyone with information about what happened to call Pitt-Greenville CrimeStoppers at 758-7777.
A funeral for Walter Clayton Malloy Sr. is scheduled for 11 a.m. Wednesday at Wilkerson Funeral Home.
Monday, September 20, 2010
Rosenberg Police Department Seeks Assistance For Family Of Officer Injured In Motorcycle Accident
Rosenberg Police Department Seeks Assistance For Family Of Officer Injured In Motorcycle Accident
The Rosenberg Police Department is collecting donations to help the family of an officer injured in a motorcycle accident Sept. 15.
An account has been established to help the family of police officer Gary Roberts, who is currently in the Shock-Trauma Intensive Care Unit at Memorial Hermann. The department is collecting donations to help with medical expenses.
Donations can be made at Texas Citizens Bank, 24701 Southwest Freeway, Suite 700, Rosenberg, 281-238-8700. For additional information, contact the Rosenberg Police Department at 832-595-3700.
The Rosenberg Police Department is collecting donations to help the family of an officer injured in a motorcycle accident Sept. 15.
An account has been established to help the family of police officer Gary Roberts, who is currently in the Shock-Trauma Intensive Care Unit at Memorial Hermann. The department is collecting donations to help with medical expenses.
Donations can be made at Texas Citizens Bank, 24701 Southwest Freeway, Suite 700, Rosenberg, 281-238-8700. For additional information, contact the Rosenberg Police Department at 832-595-3700.
Friday, September 17, 2010
Board Hears About Towing Companies’ Ability To Charge Uncapped Fees On Private Property Tows
Board Hears About Towing Companies’ Ability To Charge Uncapped Fees On Private Property Tows
The city of Chattanooga’s recently revised ordinance governing the operation of towing businesses has apparently left some wide-open loop-holes in the amount towing companies can charge for private property tows, the Beer and Wrecker Board was told Thursday. In an instance brought before the board, it was discovered that if a company is contracted to tow cars off of privately owned property, they can add on uncapped “incidental” charges.
In the case of one young college student, who admittedly parked in the wrong spot, All About Towing Company charged $250 to reclaim his vehicle.
Popular local restaurant entrepreneur Johnny Hennen went before the board to inquire about the charges recently levied against his son. The young man, a student at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, had parked behind the Genghis Grill at 138 Market Street in a posted tow away zone. However, after having had a few drinks, he elected to leave his car there and stay over with a friend. Mr. Hennen told the board that his son realizes he had parked in the wrong place. However, he felt the charge for the tow was excessive in light of the latest changes to the city ordinance.
He was told by board chairman J. Frederick Weinhold that while the city ordinance does set basic rates for day and night tows, tow operators are allowed “uncapped” incidental charges related to after hours private property tows. While the bill from All About Towing, owned and operated by Carter Gross, reflected the total charge as $250, it did not break the bill down by applicable fees, as required by the ordinance, the board was told.
Mr. Gross was a vocal opponent of the ordinance changes that lowered the amount tow operators could charge their “customers.”
According to Mr. Weinhold, “The charges are set as $125 basic fee for daytime; $135 basic fee for nighttime plus a $50 winching fee for both times, plus any additional fees the operator deems appropriate.”
As put by board member Phillip Sallee, “So a towing operator could charge $800 or even a thousand dollars and we have no control over it?” Mr. Weinhold responded in the affirmative, saying “not by the way the city ordinance is written.”
“Our only jurisdiction is on district tows as authorized by the police department,” the chairman concluded. “There is no cap on night tows.”
Councilwoman Deborah Scott, who was in the audience, said afterwards that she did not vote in favor of the ordinance as it is currently written “and for the very reasons in evidence today.” She stated, “I have very real concerns over leaving fees uncapped on these incidental fees.”
Asked if she would bring this up at a future council meeting she replied that she was undecided at this point, but did say, “Those on the council who voted for the ordinance should be very aware of the problems caused to our residents and those visiting our city.”
Many on the Beer and Wrecker Board appeared to have problems with the way the ordinance is written, as well, and approached the councilwoman at the end of the meeting to address their concerns with her.
In other actions, the board approved beer licenses for Ribs and Blues LP, doing business as Sugar’s Ribs at 507 Broad Street; Applebee’s at 401 Market Street; Pizza ChaCha/Jitteaz at 863 McCallie Avenue; Cloud 9, LLC at 1101 Hixson Pike; Stop”N”Go Mini Market at 103 W. 38th Street; and, Mi Tierra (formerly Mi Tia’s) at 5813 Lee Highway, Suite #3.
Pedro Diego, appearing for the second time before the board, was again denied a permit based on his establishment not having passed a fire inspection. His application was passed until Oct. 7.
Others passed until that date were: several locations of the Dollar General Store (carry-out permits) and Starr-Heinsman, LLC at 825 Houston St.
Special events licenses were given to Chattanooga Presents for two events. The first is the Fourth Annual Three Sisters Festival on Oct. 1 & 2 at Ross’s Landing; the second is the first occurrence of the RiverRocks Festival, a 10-day event featuring outdoor activities with over 100 events scheduled to take place. Beer sales will occur on the last two days of the festival, Oct. 8 & 9.
Larry Don Cook, Jr., representing “Chickstock,” a fund-raiser for the North Chickamauga Creek Conservancy, was given a special event permit for Oct. 10. The event will occur at Greenway Farms, 5051 Gann Store Road.
Attorney Arvin Reingold, appearing for La Macarana of 2825 Rossville Blvd., on a violation of failing to purchase from a distributor and underage drinking, asked that it be passed until Oct. 7, which he was granted. Officer John Collins of the Chattanooga Police Department raised an objection to continuing the case as there were already two other cases the establishment had received suspensions for three days. One involved an incident with a minor.
The city of Chattanooga’s recently revised ordinance governing the operation of towing businesses has apparently left some wide-open loop-holes in the amount towing companies can charge for private property tows, the Beer and Wrecker Board was told Thursday. In an instance brought before the board, it was discovered that if a company is contracted to tow cars off of privately owned property, they can add on uncapped “incidental” charges.
In the case of one young college student, who admittedly parked in the wrong spot, All About Towing Company charged $250 to reclaim his vehicle.
Popular local restaurant entrepreneur Johnny Hennen went before the board to inquire about the charges recently levied against his son. The young man, a student at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, had parked behind the Genghis Grill at 138 Market Street in a posted tow away zone. However, after having had a few drinks, he elected to leave his car there and stay over with a friend. Mr. Hennen told the board that his son realizes he had parked in the wrong place. However, he felt the charge for the tow was excessive in light of the latest changes to the city ordinance.
He was told by board chairman J. Frederick Weinhold that while the city ordinance does set basic rates for day and night tows, tow operators are allowed “uncapped” incidental charges related to after hours private property tows. While the bill from All About Towing, owned and operated by Carter Gross, reflected the total charge as $250, it did not break the bill down by applicable fees, as required by the ordinance, the board was told.
Mr. Gross was a vocal opponent of the ordinance changes that lowered the amount tow operators could charge their “customers.”
According to Mr. Weinhold, “The charges are set as $125 basic fee for daytime; $135 basic fee for nighttime plus a $50 winching fee for both times, plus any additional fees the operator deems appropriate.”
As put by board member Phillip Sallee, “So a towing operator could charge $800 or even a thousand dollars and we have no control over it?” Mr. Weinhold responded in the affirmative, saying “not by the way the city ordinance is written.”
“Our only jurisdiction is on district tows as authorized by the police department,” the chairman concluded. “There is no cap on night tows.”
Councilwoman Deborah Scott, who was in the audience, said afterwards that she did not vote in favor of the ordinance as it is currently written “and for the very reasons in evidence today.” She stated, “I have very real concerns over leaving fees uncapped on these incidental fees.”
Asked if she would bring this up at a future council meeting she replied that she was undecided at this point, but did say, “Those on the council who voted for the ordinance should be very aware of the problems caused to our residents and those visiting our city.”
Many on the Beer and Wrecker Board appeared to have problems with the way the ordinance is written, as well, and approached the councilwoman at the end of the meeting to address their concerns with her.
In other actions, the board approved beer licenses for Ribs and Blues LP, doing business as Sugar’s Ribs at 507 Broad Street; Applebee’s at 401 Market Street; Pizza ChaCha/Jitteaz at 863 McCallie Avenue; Cloud 9, LLC at 1101 Hixson Pike; Stop”N”Go Mini Market at 103 W. 38th Street; and, Mi Tierra (formerly Mi Tia’s) at 5813 Lee Highway, Suite #3.
Pedro Diego, appearing for the second time before the board, was again denied a permit based on his establishment not having passed a fire inspection. His application was passed until Oct. 7.
Others passed until that date were: several locations of the Dollar General Store (carry-out permits) and Starr-Heinsman, LLC at 825 Houston St.
Special events licenses were given to Chattanooga Presents for two events. The first is the Fourth Annual Three Sisters Festival on Oct. 1 & 2 at Ross’s Landing; the second is the first occurrence of the RiverRocks Festival, a 10-day event featuring outdoor activities with over 100 events scheduled to take place. Beer sales will occur on the last two days of the festival, Oct. 8 & 9.
Larry Don Cook, Jr., representing “Chickstock,” a fund-raiser for the North Chickamauga Creek Conservancy, was given a special event permit for Oct. 10. The event will occur at Greenway Farms, 5051 Gann Store Road.
Attorney Arvin Reingold, appearing for La Macarana of 2825 Rossville Blvd., on a violation of failing to purchase from a distributor and underage drinking, asked that it be passed until Oct. 7, which he was granted. Officer John Collins of the Chattanooga Police Department raised an objection to continuing the case as there were already two other cases the establishment had received suspensions for three days. One involved an incident with a minor.
Thursday, September 9, 2010
Philly's "Wreck Chasers" Coming To TV Soon
Here's the story from The Daily Journal:
PHILADELPHIA -- The mean streets of the City of Brotherly Love are once again coming to television.
"Wreck Chasers," a reality show about the city's notoriously aggressive tow truck drivers, is shooting and is slated to premiere in late October on TLC.
Production crews are following several drivers with one unidentified Philadelphia towing company, often on nights and weekends when more crashes occur, as they try to beat the competition to wrecks. Filming started in May and is expected to continue until sometime in October, said Jim Kowats, the show's executive producer.
"They're very colorful, they're larger than life, they're very Philly," he said of the show's soon-to-be stars. The city was chosen because of the unusual and competitive nature of its towing businesses, he said.
It's the second series focusing on the daily difficulties for Philadelphia drivers. "Parking Wars," in its third season on the A&E cable network, features Philadelphia Parking Authority employees as they write tickets, clamp yellow locking "boots" to traffic scofflaws' car wheels, take plenty of flak from furious drivers and generally deal with the chaos that comes with trying to park in Philadelphia.
"Wreck Chasers" comes amid renewed scrutiny over Philadelphia's long-criticized tow truck drivers, who police and lawmakers say combatively compete for business as soon as an accident comes across their scanners.
Rival companies getting to a crash simultaneously can resort to blows, or worse.
A driver from J & Son's Towing is accused of shooting a competitor from Mystical Complete Auto Service in the thigh on July 19 because he thought his rival was trying to swoop in on a job, police said. Two days later, 13 cars on the J & Son's lot were torched and Mystical's offices were riddled with six bullets.
TLC had contacted city officials about shooting "Wreck Chasers" weeks earlier, said Sharon Pinkenson of the Greater Philadelphia Film Office.
Kowats said the crew profiled in the show are "dedicated, likable" people who view their work removing wrecks and clearing accident scenes as providing a service that the city doesn't.
They do take it seriously. They're passionate about what they do," he said.
"They see what the ambulance drivers see, what the cops see, the injuries, the fatalities. There's a lot of emotions involved."
Philadelphia's attempts to tame its anarchic wreck chasers have failed to stop the free-for-all.
Two years ago, the city began requiring police to rotate towing jobs among 96 tow companies.
Wreck chasers skirt the system, however, by monitoring police radio and even beating officers to crashes.
After the July shooting, police began using laptop computers in cruisers instead of police radio to report accidents.
Now they believe some of the towing companies are instead monitoring Fire Department radio calls for rescue units being dispatched to crashes.
Councilman Jim Kenney has called for a suspension of the rotation system while the city reviews the licensing status of the 96 companies, including the two involved in what he called a "Wild West shootout."
Numerous complaints or violations have been lodged against 19 companies on the list, Kenney has said, while others are not properly licensed or simply changed names after losing their licenses.
Some wreck chasers also have been accused of signing up unwitting drivers to contracts that commit them to expensive repairs
PHILADELPHIA -- The mean streets of the City of Brotherly Love are once again coming to television.
"Wreck Chasers," a reality show about the city's notoriously aggressive tow truck drivers, is shooting and is slated to premiere in late October on TLC.
Production crews are following several drivers with one unidentified Philadelphia towing company, often on nights and weekends when more crashes occur, as they try to beat the competition to wrecks. Filming started in May and is expected to continue until sometime in October, said Jim Kowats, the show's executive producer.
"They're very colorful, they're larger than life, they're very Philly," he said of the show's soon-to-be stars. The city was chosen because of the unusual and competitive nature of its towing businesses, he said.
It's the second series focusing on the daily difficulties for Philadelphia drivers. "Parking Wars," in its third season on the A&E cable network, features Philadelphia Parking Authority employees as they write tickets, clamp yellow locking "boots" to traffic scofflaws' car wheels, take plenty of flak from furious drivers and generally deal with the chaos that comes with trying to park in Philadelphia.
"Wreck Chasers" comes amid renewed scrutiny over Philadelphia's long-criticized tow truck drivers, who police and lawmakers say combatively compete for business as soon as an accident comes across their scanners.
Rival companies getting to a crash simultaneously can resort to blows, or worse.
A driver from J & Son's Towing is accused of shooting a competitor from Mystical Complete Auto Service in the thigh on July 19 because he thought his rival was trying to swoop in on a job, police said. Two days later, 13 cars on the J & Son's lot were torched and Mystical's offices were riddled with six bullets.
TLC had contacted city officials about shooting "Wreck Chasers" weeks earlier, said Sharon Pinkenson of the Greater Philadelphia Film Office.
Kowats said the crew profiled in the show are "dedicated, likable" people who view their work removing wrecks and clearing accident scenes as providing a service that the city doesn't.
They do take it seriously. They're passionate about what they do," he said.
"They see what the ambulance drivers see, what the cops see, the injuries, the fatalities. There's a lot of emotions involved."
Philadelphia's attempts to tame its anarchic wreck chasers have failed to stop the free-for-all.
Two years ago, the city began requiring police to rotate towing jobs among 96 tow companies.
Wreck chasers skirt the system, however, by monitoring police radio and even beating officers to crashes.
After the July shooting, police began using laptop computers in cruisers instead of police radio to report accidents.
Now they believe some of the towing companies are instead monitoring Fire Department radio calls for rescue units being dispatched to crashes.
Councilman Jim Kenney has called for a suspension of the rotation system while the city reviews the licensing status of the 96 companies, including the two involved in what he called a "Wild West shootout."
Numerous complaints or violations have been lodged against 19 companies on the list, Kenney has said, while others are not properly licensed or simply changed names after losing their licenses.
Some wreck chasers also have been accused of signing up unwitting drivers to contracts that commit them to expensive repairs
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
New Law Could Put Some towers out of work
Tow-truck law to affect businesses
Posted on 09/05/2010
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A new law designed to protect consumers from under-qualified tow truck operators goes into effect Oct. 1 and one local man says the legislation may force his towing company and other businesses like it to fold.
Jon Velez, who has operates Norwalk Towing, LLC -- a small company with two tow trucks and a total of three employees, said the stringent requirements brought on by the law will cost family-owned businesses tens of thousands of dollars.
"I've got 12-to-15 garages that I tow for," said Velez. "I depend on them and they depend on me. Not only do they depend on me, their families depend on me."
The law, which was unanimously passed in the state legislature and was signed into law by Gov. M. Jodi Rell on June 5, strengthens the equipment and license plate requirement for businesses that tow vehicles.
Tow truck companies will now be required to have their tow trucks registered with wrecker plates, whereas they were only required to have commercial plates prior to the law's enactment. The plates cost $125 and do not need to be renewed but the applicant must be a licensed automobile dealer or repairer.
"These lobbyists keep saying: 'It's only $125,'" Velez said. "It's not like going to the store and getting a quart of milk."
Velez does not own a repair shop, as required by the law, but he is contracted to tow vehicles to repair shops in Norwalk and Westport. He is also contracted by various auto clubs who have roadside-assistance programs -- such as Geico -- and companies such as AT&T.
Phil Terentino, who works for Norwalk Towing, pointed out that many local garages do not own tow trucks and the law will also affect those businesses.
"If you own a garage but don't own your own truck, who are you going to call?" said Terentino.
Joe Miano, president of the Towing and Recovery Professionals of Connecticut -- an association of towing companies -- lobbied for the law and he said it gives consumers peace of mine. He said the law is a way to weed out "backyard" or "gypsy" operations who undercut their competitors by using unlicensed drivers and underinsured vehicles.
Allen Fedor, owner of the Norwalk-based repair shop and towing company Fedor's Autobody, said he pays a high insurance premium and makes sure his workers are qualified but businesses cut prices by up to two-thirds by not doing so.
He said his company trucks are covered should one of the trucks damage the car it is towing but "gypsy" towers do not have such insurance coverage.
Velez is also highly insured and he and Terentino have all the licensing requirements needed to operate a tow truck. He has approached repair shop owners to see if he could tow for the shop but the owners are afraid of the liability that comes with operating a tow truck company.
With his options running out, Velez -- who is admittedly behind in his taxes -- fears his house will be foreclosed upon and he will not be able to pay for his son to go to college.
Velez questions why so many politicians who claim to be interested in creating and securing jobs in the state would unanimously pass a bill that will kill family-owned businesses.
"I don't think they put me out on purpose," he said. "They just didn't read the bill."
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Another stupid solution by stupid politicians. Politicians have no idea of ral life situations and so they make fixes that sound good for news releases yet very impractical in function. The shill for teh Professional Towers was just that - a shill for big companies so small companies can't get any business and the big companies can raise their rates. Where is Cafero or any other representative on this issue for a home town man with a good business? Probably on a paid vacation, paid for by the people.
Tow trucks, the company that owns them, and the rates they can charge, have been licensed for over fifty years. (Sec. 14-66 Wreckers). If this guy has been towing and getting paid w/o wrecker plates and the requisite insurance, he has been breaking the law and unfairly competing with properly licensed tow truck services.
The only way I can imagine he has avoided being arrested is the police dept is too busy and too undermanned to have anybody looking for that kind of violation.
The new law doesn't change much for licensed wreckers, it may may it harder for guys like this to continue to operate.
It is a wonder none of the licensed wreckers ever turned this guy in to the police and/or to the motor vehicle dept.
Posted on 09/05/2010
link to this article
ShareThis
A new law designed to protect consumers from under-qualified tow truck operators goes into effect Oct. 1 and one local man says the legislation may force his towing company and other businesses like it to fold.
Jon Velez, who has operates Norwalk Towing, LLC -- a small company with two tow trucks and a total of three employees, said the stringent requirements brought on by the law will cost family-owned businesses tens of thousands of dollars.
"I've got 12-to-15 garages that I tow for," said Velez. "I depend on them and they depend on me. Not only do they depend on me, their families depend on me."
The law, which was unanimously passed in the state legislature and was signed into law by Gov. M. Jodi Rell on June 5, strengthens the equipment and license plate requirement for businesses that tow vehicles.
Tow truck companies will now be required to have their tow trucks registered with wrecker plates, whereas they were only required to have commercial plates prior to the law's enactment. The plates cost $125 and do not need to be renewed but the applicant must be a licensed automobile dealer or repairer.
"These lobbyists keep saying: 'It's only $125,'" Velez said. "It's not like going to the store and getting a quart of milk."
Velez does not own a repair shop, as required by the law, but he is contracted to tow vehicles to repair shops in Norwalk and Westport. He is also contracted by various auto clubs who have roadside-assistance programs -- such as Geico -- and companies such as AT&T.
Phil Terentino, who works for Norwalk Towing, pointed out that many local garages do not own tow trucks and the law will also affect those businesses.
"If you own a garage but don't own your own truck, who are you going to call?" said Terentino.
Joe Miano, president of the Towing and Recovery Professionals of Connecticut -- an association of towing companies -- lobbied for the law and he said it gives consumers peace of mine. He said the law is a way to weed out "backyard" or "gypsy" operations who undercut their competitors by using unlicensed drivers and underinsured vehicles.
Allen Fedor, owner of the Norwalk-based repair shop and towing company Fedor's Autobody, said he pays a high insurance premium and makes sure his workers are qualified but businesses cut prices by up to two-thirds by not doing so.
He said his company trucks are covered should one of the trucks damage the car it is towing but "gypsy" towers do not have such insurance coverage.
Velez is also highly insured and he and Terentino have all the licensing requirements needed to operate a tow truck. He has approached repair shop owners to see if he could tow for the shop but the owners are afraid of the liability that comes with operating a tow truck company.
With his options running out, Velez -- who is admittedly behind in his taxes -- fears his house will be foreclosed upon and he will not be able to pay for his son to go to college.
Velez questions why so many politicians who claim to be interested in creating and securing jobs in the state would unanimously pass a bill that will kill family-owned businesses.
"I don't think they put me out on purpose," he said. "They just didn't read the bill."
You must be registered and logged in to comment on stories. Login or Register now!
Another stupid solution by stupid politicians. Politicians have no idea of ral life situations and so they make fixes that sound good for news releases yet very impractical in function. The shill for teh Professional Towers was just that - a shill for big companies so small companies can't get any business and the big companies can raise their rates. Where is Cafero or any other representative on this issue for a home town man with a good business? Probably on a paid vacation, paid for by the people.
Tow trucks, the company that owns them, and the rates they can charge, have been licensed for over fifty years. (Sec. 14-66 Wreckers). If this guy has been towing and getting paid w/o wrecker plates and the requisite insurance, he has been breaking the law and unfairly competing with properly licensed tow truck services.
The only way I can imagine he has avoided being arrested is the police dept is too busy and too undermanned to have anybody looking for that kind of violation.
The new law doesn't change much for licensed wreckers, it may may it harder for guys like this to continue to operate.
It is a wonder none of the licensed wreckers ever turned this guy in to the police and/or to the motor vehicle dept.
Friday, September 3, 2010
IL Security Guard Accused of Shooting at Tow Truck
IL Security Guard Accused of Shooting at Tow Truck
A 65-year-old store security guard shot at a tow truck as his car was about to be repossessed, officials say.
Ike D. Holmes was working at an Aldi food store in the 5600 block of West Fillmore Street on Aug. 27 when a tow truck arrived at about 7 a.m. to repossess his car, police said.
Holmes argued with the two men in the tow truck, then took out a gun and shot one of the truck's tires, police said.
Holmes, of the 2100 block of West 119 Street, was charged with felony aggravated discharge of a weapon, misdemeanor criminal damage to property, failing to register a fire arm and two counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, police said.
A 65-year-old store security guard shot at a tow truck as his car was about to be repossessed, officials say.
Ike D. Holmes was working at an Aldi food store in the 5600 block of West Fillmore Street on Aug. 27 when a tow truck arrived at about 7 a.m. to repossess his car, police said.
Holmes argued with the two men in the tow truck, then took out a gun and shot one of the truck's tires, police said.
Holmes, of the 2100 block of West 119 Street, was charged with felony aggravated discharge of a weapon, misdemeanor criminal damage to property, failing to register a fire arm and two counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, police said.
Female colides with back of wrecker
On August 28th Deputy Zavorski was dispatched to the 28000 Block of Autumn Lane in reference to a Disturbance. The Reportee advised that a female had been driving in reverse down Autumn Lane and collided with the back of his wrecker that was parked on the street. The Reportee stated there was no damage to either vehicle, but a verbal disturbance started . Deputy Zavorski located the female sitting in her vehicle in the driveway of an abandoned home on Autumn Lane. While speaking to the female subject the Deputy observed 15 to 20 red circle shaped pills on the passenger floorboard and an open prescription pill bottle in plain view. A prescription bottle with the label torn off was in the Glove Box containing 4 ½ Lorecet pills. Also a bottle with a partial label containing 2 ½ Xanix pills was on the center console. The female subject was arrested for Possession of Controlled Substance and transported to the Montgomery County Jail.
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Getting Familiar with Wrecker Services: more than just towing services
Wrecker services keep our roads free from traffic caused by broken down vehicles, illegally parked cars, and junked cars. They also help in the transportation of multiple vehicles from one place to another. Wrecker services provide more than just towing service, so in case you were wondering what other services they offer, here is a list of their standard menu of services.
Jumpstarts, tire changes, and lockouts-these services are usually available for 24 hours. In case you were wondering, a lockout or tag out is a safety measure on the road which ensures that dangerous machines are properly shut off and not started up again prior to the completion of maintenance or servicing work. Jumpstarts and tire changes are probably one of the most demanded wrecker services in a day.
Light duty towing-light duty towing includes junk cars, vans, and small to mid-sized trucks. A junk car that is a result of an auto accident is immediately attended to in order to avoid road blockage and further accidents. Illegally parked vehicles also fall under light duty towing (depending on the road regulations of the area). Light duty towing also includes transportation of motorcycles that often require special equipment that will load and unload the vehicle without damaging it.
Medium and Heavy duty towing-this towing service covers recovery missions of large vehicles such as trucks and trailers. Wrecker services are expected to have been technically trained in such situations and perform with utmost precaution for the safety of everyone in the area. This includes strategic planning in the revival of vehicles on dangerous terrain. This service is also available 24 hours a day for almost, if not, all wrecker service companies.
Impound, towing, and storage for municipalities-most wrecker service companies work with their local municipality in road and traffic management. Since they usually have enough space for storing impounded vehicles like cars, motor homes, trucks, and motorcycles, wrecker services are also approached for storage lien auctions for vehicles that are not claimed within the period prescribed by law. Auctioned vehicles are sometimes put up on their company websites to give interested buyers a chance to check it out in advance.
Special Services-not all wrecker services provide special services like aircraft recovery and disaster response. This is because the service requires special equipment and additional training for the staff. Big wrecker service vendors are the ones who usually have this offer, especially those who have been around for more than 20 years. Nevertheless, it's always good to know that wrecker service companies can be trusted to help out in such situations.
When looking for a reliable towing and wrecker service company, make sure their staff have had sufficient and continuous training in the services they provide, especially those that involve accidents and disasters. Most vendors already have their own websites and many review sites can help you choose the right one. For wrecker service needs around the areas of Tampa, try our E and E Towing.
Jumpstarts, tire changes, and lockouts-these services are usually available for 24 hours. In case you were wondering, a lockout or tag out is a safety measure on the road which ensures that dangerous machines are properly shut off and not started up again prior to the completion of maintenance or servicing work. Jumpstarts and tire changes are probably one of the most demanded wrecker services in a day.
Light duty towing-light duty towing includes junk cars, vans, and small to mid-sized trucks. A junk car that is a result of an auto accident is immediately attended to in order to avoid road blockage and further accidents. Illegally parked vehicles also fall under light duty towing (depending on the road regulations of the area). Light duty towing also includes transportation of motorcycles that often require special equipment that will load and unload the vehicle without damaging it.
Medium and Heavy duty towing-this towing service covers recovery missions of large vehicles such as trucks and trailers. Wrecker services are expected to have been technically trained in such situations and perform with utmost precaution for the safety of everyone in the area. This includes strategic planning in the revival of vehicles on dangerous terrain. This service is also available 24 hours a day for almost, if not, all wrecker service companies.
Impound, towing, and storage for municipalities-most wrecker service companies work with their local municipality in road and traffic management. Since they usually have enough space for storing impounded vehicles like cars, motor homes, trucks, and motorcycles, wrecker services are also approached for storage lien auctions for vehicles that are not claimed within the period prescribed by law. Auctioned vehicles are sometimes put up on their company websites to give interested buyers a chance to check it out in advance.
Special Services-not all wrecker services provide special services like aircraft recovery and disaster response. This is because the service requires special equipment and additional training for the staff. Big wrecker service vendors are the ones who usually have this offer, especially those who have been around for more than 20 years. Nevertheless, it's always good to know that wrecker service companies can be trusted to help out in such situations.
When looking for a reliable towing and wrecker service company, make sure their staff have had sufficient and continuous training in the services they provide, especially those that involve accidents and disasters. Most vendors already have their own websites and many review sites can help you choose the right one. For wrecker service needs around the areas of Tampa, try our E and E Towing.
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Driver rams vehicle at tow lot: Police
Driver rams vehicle at tow lot: Police
Picking up a car from the impound lot can be frustrating. To hear Fairfax City police tell it, though, a woman took things well past too far on Monday afternoon.
At 4:39 p.m., an employee at Henry's Wrecker Service 10401 Eaton Place called to report that after the driver had paid a towing fee, she rammed the car into another vehicle, which yielded an estimated $1,500 damage to an entrance gate.
“Apparently she was angry,” said Officer Lynn Coulter, a police spokeswoman.
Coulter said the driver was a friend of the car’s owner. No arrests were reported as of 1 p.m. today.
Things can get tense at the lots.
“I had a guy almost run me over 10 years ago,” Coulter said.
And she was in uniform.
James W. Smith, manager of the facility, declined to comment specifically on the case. But he said he understands, up to a point, why drivers get so frustrated:
“My, God yes," he said. "You come out in the morning, and your vehicle is gone. You’re expecting to go to work, and your chariot is not there.”
But he also sees people go overboard.
"I have been hit at, I've been spit at, I've had weapons pulled on me," said Smith, a 20-year veteran of the business.
Smith said he had a customer service window placed low because when people bend over, he has found, they can’t spit as well.
He also tells his employees to treat everyone walking in the door like they’d want to be treated and, when possible, use humor.
"Patience is probably 99 percent of this business," he said. "Let’s face it: How many people drive by the tow yard and say, 'Let's stop by and say hello to the tow people'? It just doesn’t happen."
Picking up a car from the impound lot can be frustrating. To hear Fairfax City police tell it, though, a woman took things well past too far on Monday afternoon.
At 4:39 p.m., an employee at Henry's Wrecker Service 10401 Eaton Place called to report that after the driver had paid a towing fee, she rammed the car into another vehicle, which yielded an estimated $1,500 damage to an entrance gate.
“Apparently she was angry,” said Officer Lynn Coulter, a police spokeswoman.
Coulter said the driver was a friend of the car’s owner. No arrests were reported as of 1 p.m. today.
Things can get tense at the lots.
“I had a guy almost run me over 10 years ago,” Coulter said.
And she was in uniform.
James W. Smith, manager of the facility, declined to comment specifically on the case. But he said he understands, up to a point, why drivers get so frustrated:
“My, God yes," he said. "You come out in the morning, and your vehicle is gone. You’re expecting to go to work, and your chariot is not there.”
But he also sees people go overboard.
"I have been hit at, I've been spit at, I've had weapons pulled on me," said Smith, a 20-year veteran of the business.
Smith said he had a customer service window placed low because when people bend over, he has found, they can’t spit as well.
He also tells his employees to treat everyone walking in the door like they’d want to be treated and, when possible, use humor.
"Patience is probably 99 percent of this business," he said. "Let’s face it: How many people drive by the tow yard and say, 'Let's stop by and say hello to the tow people'? It just doesn’t happen."
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