MOBILE, Ala. (AP) — Police in Alabama have searched five towing companies that are under investigation for possible insurance fraud.
New outlets report officers executed search warrants Friday at more than a dozen locations. Mobile Police Chief Lawrence Battiste says some of the companies have been charging up to 100% more than the city allows to tow vehicles.
AL.com reports representatives from towing companies began to ask for an increase to the legal towing fee at Mobile city council meetings. Mobile Police Assistant Chief Roy Hodge says that led to complaints about towing costs from residents.
Last month, South Alabama Towing and Recovery Association President Crystal M. Smith said in a news release that the group does not condone overcharging. Smith said the association supports punishment for the offender if the allegations are proven.
