March 29, 2024
Local News | The Times


Local News

Ask the Times: Legality of impounding vehicles

Q. Why is impounding cars legal in Streator but not Chicago?

A. Impounding vehicles is legal in Chicago as well; however, a class action lawsuit contends the style in which police impound vehicles is unconstitutional because the city tows away vehicles and holds them while accumulating fees even after charges against the vehicles' owners have been dropped or resolved. Among the plaintiffs is Spencer Byrd, whose 1996 Cadillac DeVille was held for three years despite there not being any charges against him.