Another Victim Comes Forward
As a result of an article that appeared in last month’s edition of the Independent Gazette yet another local resident has complained of losing their vehicle to the practices of LAG Towing. Dolores Gipson, a longtime resident of the city stopped by our office and related the story of how her grandson Larry Allen lost his vehicle after having it towed by the city contractor.
Almost four years ago according to Larry Allen his car was towed after it had broken down leaving the Turkey Hill on the corner of Hazel Street and Wilkes-Barre Boulevard. His 93 Honda Accord EX had lost its clutch and he coasted it to the right side of the road, where it was left while he went for help.
On returning with a friend he found his vehicle had been towed, and this started what is fast becoming yet another familiar story for the citizens of Wilkes-Barre.
Having been informed by the local police that his vehicle was towed by LAG, he called the city tower and was told they did not have the vehicle. By the second day LAG confirmed having the car, and by the third day a bill of $475.00 was due to retrieve the vehicle. “I did not have those funds readily available,” said Allen. “I needed my tools and other personal belongings from the car,” he lamented. Again according to Mr. Allen,LAG told him you have one of two options “bring what is due or bring us the title to your car and we will buy it from you for a dollar.”
“A few months went by and when I received my income tax refund check I called and offered LAG towing $2000 for my towed vehicle. I was told it would take $4000. That was my last correspondence with LAG, said Allen. His Honda Accord has never been recovered nor did he ever receive his tools or personal belongings.
Phone calls to LAG towing regarding this incident have not been returned to the Independent Gazette.
The Independent Gazette will continue its investigation into alleged price gouging by the local tower and accusations that way too many residents have needed to turn in titles to their vehicles to get back personal belongings. Please contact us at the Independent Gazette located at 253 South Main with similar accounts. By telling your story, you help empower those that feel they have no voice.
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