DO NOT FALL FOR THE SCAM:
This past week, our officers received a complaint about a missing vehicle left in a business's parking lot for a few hours overnight. Although this is not a violation of state law, a private business parking lot could remove vehicles from their parking lots after proper signage or advice is given to the registered owner of any vehicle.
However, this time, neither the business nor the towing company had proper signage at the entrance of the parking lot. This towing company decided to impound the vehicle without the business or the vehicle's registered owner's authorization. At the time, the car was entered as stolen until further investigation. Our officers were able to track down the car and recover it for the victim.
Deceptive towing companies are known for towing vehicles from unauthorized businesses and holding them hostage until the towing fees are paid. If you are a victim of these tactics, please report the incident to the local law enforcement agency and the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR)
https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/Complaints/
You'll need the towing company's TDLR number displayed on the side of the tow truck or the tow yard number displayed at the front of the business.
Stay safe, and don't fall for the scam!