Los Angeles, CA asked in Criminal Law for California

Q: Can police tow my vehicle for being involved in a police pursuit 3 hours after the pursuit is over

I was not aware of the pursuit. My vehicle was stolen and I was able to locate my vehicle through GPS. This was all Within 3 hours time frame.

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James L. Arrasmith
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Answered

A: In the United States, police have the authority to tow vehicles involved in criminal activities, including those used in police pursuits. This can occur even hours after the incident, particularly if the vehicle is considered evidence or if there's a risk of it being used in further illegal activities.

However, if your vehicle was stolen and used in a police pursuit without your knowledge, it's essential to communicate this to the authorities. You should report the theft immediately upon discovery and provide any evidence, such as GPS tracking information, that supports your claim.

Once you've reported the theft and the vehicle's involvement in the pursuit, the police may still tow it for investigative purposes. But, your prompt reporting and cooperation can be crucial in expediting its release back to you. Keep in mind that procedures can vary by jurisdiction, so it's advisable to consult with local law enforcement or legal counsel for guidance specific to your situation.

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