Predatory Towing Ring Exposed in L.A.

Authorities have busted a predatory towing operation in Van Nuys, California, recovering 145 vehicles after a joint investigation by the LAPD, California Highway Patrol, and other agencies.

Police say the scam involved tow truck drivers targeting victims of minor accidents or vehicle breakdowns. In some cases, a supposed “witness” would offer to help and later text the victim, claiming their insurance had authorized a tow. Victims, misled into signing documents, later faced inflated invoices with unauthorized charges—sometimes as high as $15,000.

“These victims were forced to pay extensive fees to get their vehicle out of the shop,” said LAPD Deputy Chief Marla Ciuffitelli.

The towing companies involved were allegedly operating under names like Legend Auto and Legend Enterprise. Complaints and online reviews had previously flagged their practices.

In one case, a victim refused a tow, but her vehicle was taken from her driveway overnight.

The investigation remains ongoing. Source: https://abc7.com