Posted by sales on May 13, 2008 at 12:57 a.m. (Suggest removal)

About time this company gets knocked down a notch. We have been tracking them for sometime and it seems that no one wants to do anything when just the small guy is getting screwed over.

But, what goes around comes around! You can only break the law for so long! We do feel a little sorry for the employees that are forced to break the law just to earn a paycheck, the big guy should get arrested for pushing the tows each night. But, they should know better and not work for a company that does that to whom they are supposed to protect.

gcscam.com

Posted by sales on May 13, 2008 at 3:12 a.m. (Suggest removal)

You are right, they should be forced out of business, their records viewed and force them to repay everyone and some jail time.

I think the frustration comes from how long this took to have a pretty good case, seeing they have been breaking the law for a long time.

Its sad when a security is hired to protect a property and yet the people are terrorized more by the company that is there to protect them.

The actions should not be confused with the reputable companies and still do a good job.

Don Clobes, jr....shame on you, how do you sleep at night...oh wait, you dont sleep at night, cuz, thats when you hop in your tow truck and steal cars!!!

Posted by CloudyDaze on May 13, 2008 at 5:16 a.m. (Suggest removal)

You're both right. These people are car thieves, period. Sadly, when bums like these get caught, the penalties are usually lax, and they frequently just re-open under a new name. Happens all the time in LA. Hopefully our DA will send these crooks to jail where they belong.
Hey Ron Bamieh: Its not disgraceful your client got picked on, what is disgraceful is you defend them. Hope you all sleep well at night. One more thing, hope none of you run into all the enemies you made. Where do you guys park YOUR cars at night anyway...?

Posted by ebrockway on May 13, 2008 at 5:25 a.m. (Suggest removal)

CAUCASIOD,
'Scuse me? I happen to tow on weekends, we work hard for our customers, have for years. We don't all go out at night "stealing" cars. And on that note, when somebody parks in YOUR spot I wonder if you wouldn't call those guys?

Posted by ebrockway on May 13, 2008 at 5:34 a.m. (Suggest removal)

sales,
I checked out your web site a week ago when I heard runors that this bust was coming down. I was curious about what ever happened in all those cases you listed, and I couldn't find one case either Buena or GCS lost in court. Must have their ducks lined up.

Posted by bob100 on May 13, 2008 at 5:46 a.m. (Suggest removal)

"Ron Bamieh, a former senior deputy district attorney with the Ventura County District Attorney's Office who now represents Clobes"

AND ATTORNEY FOR THE VC STAR

"said it was disgraceful that police and prosecutors should target two tow-truck drivers and a security guard." Why? A thief is a thief.

Translation: When you are guilty and have no defense, attack the police and prosecutors.

Posted by AnaCapa on May 13, 2008 at 5:55 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I have to laugh at the dumb things attorneys say on behalf of their clients. This is a quote from Ron Bamieh, attorney for the security firm after his client WAS CAUGHT IN A STING referring to the actions of the police: "It's not the right thing to do, not morally, not ethically, not legally."

Hummm, I thought it was the Police's job to uphold the law on behalf of the citizens.

Posted by goldeneye on May 13, 2008 at 7:01 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Ron Bamieh talking about something being "disgraceful" is a real joke. Did he think it was disgraceful when he served as a mouthpiece in court for rapist Carlo Parlanti or when he represented gang members in their murder cases? You can actually see a transcript of his arguments on behalf of the convicted rapist at www.carloparlanti.com. I cannot understand why the Star would give this guy an ongoing forum for his rants against those who make a living trying to make Ventura County a safer place.

Posted by MRDIMENTED on May 13, 2008 at 7:43 a.m. (Suggest removal)

These guys (a few who were not arrested, especially) are thugs plain and simple. I have seen them personally threaten and intimidate drivers who were just trying to get their vehicles back.

As to the inside job part of it, you could not be closer to the truth. What is not mentioned in the paper is that Buena Towing and Gold Coast security are owned by the same three people. Buena drivers would locate a vehicle and then call Gold Coast security to come and "legitimize" the tow, hence predatory towing.

In any instance where a Gold Coast patrol driver located a vehicle on one of the many Home Owners Associations properties that they patrol, the security officer would receive a "bonus" for locating the vehicle. Can you say Kickback?

If you live in an HOA that is patrolled by these companies I recommend that you dump their services immediately.

Finally if you have been victimized by Buena Towing, file your complaint with the Oxnard Police Dept. State law requires the towing operator to pay pack 3 times the amount charged to the vehicle owner in any case of wrongdoing. Put these Thugs out of business.

Posted by mikeb6804 on May 13, 2008 at 7:47 a.m. (Suggest removal)

About Ron Bamieh---his logic and statements are why I hate lawyers (most but not all).

Posted by oxnardsprawlbites on May 13, 2008 at 7:51 a.m. (Suggest removal)

turns out the owner for buena towing is also or was also running gold coast security (by relation he was connection with gold coast). so seams a little too comfotable and coinsidental that he has tow trucks to pick up and also look outs to spot the cars. he should not be left out of the legal tangle if there is complicity.

Posted by oxnardsprawlbites on May 13, 2008 at 7:51 a.m. (Suggest removal)

turns out the owner for buena towing is also or was also running gold coast security (by relation he was connection with gold coast). so seams a little too comfotable and coinsidental that he has tow trucks to pick up and also look outs to spot the cars. he should not be left out of the legal tangle if there is complicity.

Posted by alfacrit on May 13, 2008 at 7:58 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I filed a small claims suit against Ventura for the actions of their police department in conjunction with Gold Coast Towing - they were charging double the legal gate fee. The police department 'hearing' was a disgrace, I was not allowed to call witnesses, etc. -despite the fact that it is spelled out explicitly in the law - and was decided against me.The small claims judge threw out the case for a technicality - that I should take it up in the broken 'hearing' process instead of the court. The lawyer I was going to use found out there wasn't much money in the case for him, so he quit. So much for 'justice' in Ventura.

The city had a slick lawyer, of course. Now the police are making a big show of going after predatory tow operations? Maybe they should look into their own department.

Posted by NothingButTheTruth on May 13, 2008 at 8:26 a.m. (Suggest removal)

"alfacrit" don't blame Oxnard PD for going after predatory tow operators because of your bad experience in Ventura.
People should thank Oxnard PD for being "pro-active" in going after home grown terrorists: gangs and predatory tow operators. GOOD JOB OXNARD PD!!!!

Posted by alfacrit on May 13, 2008 at 8:32 a.m. (Suggest removal)

nbtt - Ok, it's Ventura PD I have the beef with. I also filed a professional conduct complaint against Ventura PD, but they never bothered to reply.

Posted by TheVeracious1 on May 13, 2008 at 8:33 a.m. (Suggest removal)

mmshoot -

Absolutely!! A 'Degrees of Separation' chart would show just how 'incestuous' a place we live.

The majority of residents in Ventura County apparently believe that transparency and accountability in government is when officials respond to our concerns with reassuring words. It's the whole "well, they couldn't say it if it weren't true!" mentality.

Since there is a strong and sincere belief that it is completely impossible for public officials in VC to be dishonest or have anythng less than honorable motives, anyone who questions the integrity or motives of VC officials are viewed as completely unreasonable and irrational.

This dynamic is what seriously keeps Ventura County on the map with the reputation as being one of the safest places in the country for corruption!

Posted by ecarson1958 on May 13, 2008 at 8:45 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Ron Bamieh, how could you say the things you did? And what about the people who had the cars towed illegally and then missed appointments or jobs or whatever. If I was one of those people I would sue the tow company big time.

Posted by holdenon_2000 on May 13, 2008 at 8:49 a.m. (Suggest removal)

GREAT JOB OXNARD PD.
These guys towed my car about 9 weeks ago, they would not disclose who had authorized it, which is against the law. I contacted the city of Oxnard and an attorney. After about a week of phone calls and complaints I got a call from the owner of Gold Coast Security.The Gold Coast Security Owner called me and admitted that they had towed my car without signs being posted. They gave me all but $50 of the money I paid, so I am still out $50. But at the time I didn't think the city would follow through, and getting back $275 was enough for me to settle this matter. These guys are totally crooks. They prey on parking lots towing cars, even though the signs are not posted correctly.

Posted by prilhull on May 13, 2008 at 8:51 a.m. (Suggest removal)

This company is getting what it deserves. My roomates, friends, and myself have been a victum of this tow company. Three of the four times we were parked legally in our spots with the pass displayed and the fourth time a friends was visiting and her car was parked for no more than 15 min and her car was towed. Not only did they charge $140 but each time they charge the "gate fee" of $70. They also would not release the cars unless you signed a rediculus letter that you will not fight the charges. They are shady, and the deserve what they are getting. For you that are say they are working men, well so am I and they are stealing money from me and other working people. Is that fair?

Posted by alfacrit on May 13, 2008 at 8:57 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Correction - it was Goldline Towing, not Gold Coast Towing that was charging double the legal gate fees.

Posted by iam_caine on May 13, 2008 at 8:58 a.m. (Suggest removal)

This is nothing new. It has been going on since at least 2003. I am surprised it took so long for law enforcement to do something about it. I know there have been a multitude of complaints filed with every law enforcement agency in Ventura County, from the Port Hueneme Police Department to the Ventura County Sherrif's Department.

Gold Coast Security's routine is to approach a home owner's association and make them an offer they can't possibly refuse. The deal? "We will patrol your property for free. We will enforce your parking rules for free. We do, however, get to keep all parking fines and towing charges." They then proceed to run patrols just about every 15 minutes and slap a boot on any vehicle without a parking sticker parked in an unmarked slot, or any vehicle with a parking sticker that is parked in a VISITOR slot. Cost of removing the boot? $85.00 USD, payable immediately, in cash. No credit cards and no checks.

Eventually, if you don't show up to pay the unbooting fee, then they tow your vehicle away and charge you the $140.00 USD towing fee. Acording to the parking rules in the CC&Rs at the particular condominium complex I lived in, illegal parking was supposed to result in a warning first, then a "parking ticket" with a small fine, then booting, and finally towing. Unfortunately, the warnings and tickets never happened.

Gold Coast Security are criminals and I really do hope that the owner(s) and all the employees of that company, end up in both criminal and civil court, and I encourage anyone and everyone who has had dealings with them to contact an attorney and start a class action lawsuit against Gold Coast Security and Buena Towing to not only recover their fines, fees, and towing charges, but also hit them with a punitive damages claim that will finally put them out of business for good. Any attorney who wants to volunteer to be the prime in this class action suit, please post here. I am sure you will be deluged with calls.

Oh, and I encourage any and all present and past employees of Gold Coast Security to come forward and turn state's evidence against Gold Coast lest you get swept up in the criminal action and resulting class action lawsuit.

Posted by dhatcher on May 13, 2008 at 9:14 a.m. (Suggest removal)

CAUCASIOD

HOW DARE YOU!!!! YOU HAVE NO IDEA!!! You are obviously ignorant. You must have been born a trust-fund kid or something. You judge people and rate yourself superior to those less fortunate than you. I know many Tow Truck Drivers. They are all extremely hardworking. I also do the bookkeeping for a tow company in my spare time. I work with EBrockway. I also know one of the drivers who was arrested and FOR YOUR INFORMATION, he is a very nice and caring person. HE IS NOT A CROOKED DRIVER as you so put it. He had just started working there a month or two ago. So, you tell me how he could have possibly formulated this whole Grand Theft Ring that you so obviously feel he did, in that short amount of time. To say I am furious with you is an understatement.

Posted by holdenon_2000 on May 13, 2008 at 9:14 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I wanted to include this in another post, since it could be removed. Both of these Tow Truck drivers who were arrested, need some time in jail. They are obese and the jail diet could save their lives. This may be a blessing in disguise. Also the Owner of Ventura Towing kept telling me get a lawyer when I complained about their towing practices. The minute I got a lawyer, they back-tracked, and then said, opps, we made a mistake. So for someone who did not have the resources I possessed, they probably would have not accepted fault, but once they knew they had someone who would fight this and bring it to the attention of law enforcement, all the sudden, they were apologizing, and wanted me to send an email saying I would not take further action, once they refunded me my money. Apologies are basically admitting fault. They knew what they were doing was wrong, otherwise they would not have given me back my money, and requested the written email. Take the fat slobs to jail. The company hires the biggest, fatest, stupidest guys they can find to be the thugs in this crooked act. They must be stupid if they get paid so little (the tow truck driver told me they don't get paid well) and are breaking laws for their employers profit. The owners used the public, their employees, and the leverage of Trespassing Law, to con thousands of dollars, now tax payers are spending money to investigate and arrest these petty con artists. My other question is why are Ventura Security and Towing companies working in Oxnard? Oxnard security and towing companies are available, and at least the more local the towing company is the lower the towing charges, since they charge by the mile.
P.S. RON BAMIEH is a loser trying to defend the scum of society.

Posted by leenerx20x on May 13, 2008 at 9:18 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Im glad they got caught. I hate thse companies I knew something shady was going on with them. I wont get my money back for ridiculous towing fees that Ive paid to them, but this makes up for it. I hope they go down. And YES, What goes around DOES come back around.

Posted by bently on May 13, 2008 at 9:22 a.m. (Suggest removal)

OH MY GOODNESS..Don Clobbs you have to eat your words. I had my car towed with a permit , They said it was not visable. When I talked to the HOA, they said "it is not our problem" talk to Gold Coast. I then talked to Don Clobbs and he told me "There is nothing I can do" Well there was,,YOU OWN Buena towing?....And I was charge 226.00 and 90.00 gate fee, not 143.00 or 70.00 gate fee as written in the article. hmmmmmmm, Justice prevails, thank you Oxnard PD for your sting!!!! My husband and I knew this was some kind of scam, and most of our neighbors agree. Don Clobbs you owe a lot of people an apology and money!!!

Posted by joeschmo on May 13, 2008 at 9:22 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Gee whiz...you don't think the drivers are being charged,and offered a chance to provide "inside information" against the employer in exchange for lesser charges?

Posted by ln1234 on May 13, 2008 at 9:33 a.m. (Suggest removal)

This has been going on with Gold Coast Security for years! I was towed in my own parking spot and with my parking permit displayed twice! This occurred back in 2005 & 2006!

Posted by Adam_Monroe on May 13, 2008 at 9:35 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Here's a few tips for people that live or work in areas subject to such illegal towing...

#1...DO NOT PARK ILLEGALLY...EVER!! NOT EVEN FOR A FEW MINUTES!! Pay attention to any and all signs and obey the general laws for the area (visitor rules, permits, time limits, etc.)

#2...When you park, turn your wheels ALL THE WAY to one side and turn the steering wheel so it locks after removing your key. When a tow truck tries to illegally tow your car, the steering wheel will stay locked in this position and the car will be very difficult to tow because it is trying to go in circles...this is ESPECIALLY difficult if you are in a parking slot in a lot because the cars on either side of you will be in danger of getting hit by your car. It will take SO long to get your car out of the spot, that it is usually not worth the driver's time.

#3...If you are parked parallel to the curb, parallel park as often as possible (so that there is a car in front of you and a car behind you) and turn your wheels all the way to the right to face the curb. Again, this will make it incredibly difficult to tow your car and a shady driver will probably just move along to another victim.

If you should catch your car BEING towed, QUICKLY write down the time, date, location, truck number (or license plate #), driver's name/description, and press the driver for WHAT IS THE VIOLATION?? Make it known to them that you are writing down all this info so that they know that you are not just some ignorant schmuck of a victim.

If you come back to FIND that your car has been towed, and you are 100% SURE that you were in no way violating ANY parking rules, write down the time, date, location, and take pictures of the parking spot and nearby posted signs with parking rules (a great reason to have a camera cell phone) or come back and take pictures as proof that you were in NO WAY violating any rules. Present this to the towing company and threaten to take your documentation to the police, the Better Business Bureau, the media, ANYBODY and EVERYBODY.

Also, DONT LET THEM CHARGE YOU ANYTHING!!! An illegal outfit will try to get ANYTHING they can out of you!! Paying $75 vs. $200 may sound like a deal to you, but it is still ILLEGAL!! Tell them you will be charged NOTHING and GET YOUR CAR BACK or you will be forced to take it to the next level!!

Remember these are all assuming that you have followed rule number 1 and not parked illegally! Remember to document EVERYTHING and right the name, date, and time, of everyone you talk to! Then when it's all said and done...go to the media ANYHOW!

Nothing hurts a business more than bad press!!

Posted by shaver_one on May 13, 2008 at 9:37 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Dear Ron Bamieh:
It's called Grand Theft Auto for a reason. Dummy! No wonder you lost the election.

Posted by holdenon_2000 on May 13, 2008 at 9:43 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Here is another thing that I find interesting. The Security company and Towing company are working together. When I first complained to the security company, he told me he would have the towing company give me a discount. Then later once I told him to go to hell, he revoked my discount. How does the security company control the pricing of the Towing company if they are not working together? Another thing I found interesting. The Friday night my car was towed, I went down to the yard to pick it up. I was told if I did not sign the release of liability (even though I had not seen my car and confirmed it had not been damaged) they told me they would keep my car until Monday and I would have to pay additional charges. So they strong armed me into signing a contract that I did not agree with. CROOKS GO TO JAIL.

Posted by themarshallss on May 13, 2008 at 9:46 a.m. (Suggest removal)

What year are you living in?Booting has been illegal for a few years now.And Do you really think Gold Coast would be in business if they did all their patrols for free?Man I wish my complex in Ventura would get that good deal of free patrols from security.

Posted by holdenon_2000 on May 13, 2008 at 10:15 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Buena Towing Incorporated
(805) 642-8698

Gold Coast Security Services Incorporated
(805) 647-6599

Let them know how pissed you are that they are ripping people off.

Posted by cpruss on May 13, 2008 at 10:19 a.m. (Suggest removal)

These same jokers got me too awhile back. Goldcoast patrolled and buena towing towed my car. I was in my designated spot with my parking pass which had been valid for over a year. I went to get my car back the next morning and they charged me over 300 bucks! I think it was 226 + 90 and like someone posted before, the tow truck company made me sign a letter that I wouldn't take action against them or GoldCoast. They also did some damage to the front end of my car and when I brought it up to them they said that is "WEAR AND TEAR" which is caused by driving. What the heck!?!? Hopefully these clowns get some time

Posted by kickinback805 on May 13, 2008 at 10:30 a.m. (Suggest removal)

ABOUT TIME! Gold Coast and Buena have victimized so many people its unbelievable! We should get a list going were victims can be listed and should be recompensated for anything that was done unlawful.

Posted by holdenon_2000 on May 13, 2008 at 10:38 a.m. (Suggest removal)

If you own a Tow company, then why not own the Security Company as well. Then you can offer free security to all parking lot owners, and have the rights to tow anyone and everyone in the lot, without an explanation. They hid behind the Trespassing law, claiming that the security company has the authority to determine who is trespassing. This is basically like having police officers, act as judges as well. Would you accept a police officer to act as a Judge in the arrest he made? So these thieves have worked the system into acting like they are doing the community a service, when in fact they are using the FREE security contract to gain access to parking lots. I bet that they approach the property owners and may even kick them some cash, so they can tow innocent peoples cars. My car was towed without a proper explanation, and the only thing they could say is I was trespassing. I was not trespassing, I was visiting a business owner who's business uses the parking lot. Signs were not posted, nor was I notified in any way that I could not park there. A matter a fact the business owner called Gold Coast to let them know they made a mistake, but they said it was too late that they could not do anything about it, take it up with the towing company. Now that I know the towing company and the security company are the same people that really pisses me off. They use the two identities to pass blame to other identity in order to confuse and frustrate the victim being towed. What a JOKE. They should be banned from doing business in Oxnard any longer, let Ventura deal with these scums.

Posted by holdenon_2000 on May 13, 2008 at 10:46 a.m. (Suggest removal)

THANKS AGAIN OXNARD PD.
I will call and leave you all a message, thanking you for your help and for investigating these con artists.

Posted by sking on May 13, 2008 at 10:56 a.m. (Suggest removal)

These guys towed my car also. I knew I was illegally parked in front of my front door so I didn't complain, I just paid the $223.00 + $70.00 to get my car back. What I am surprised at is they needed to make a reasonable effort to find the owner. My car was about 10 feet from my door. They left a card on the ground where my car was parked. I hope this will alert them, especially Gold Coast to following the law and to be more respectful to the public they serve and not just to make a profit.

Posted by BigA on May 13, 2008 at 11:05 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I work for a security company that also does parking enforcement. From my experience most people that make these claims to the police or file lawsuits are bold faced liars. I'm not saying that these practices don't exist or that everyone that files a complaint is a liar, but most that I have seen are.
HOA's have parking regulations that the homeowners agree to but don't follow. I have had to listen to phone calls where tenants yell and scream at us for towing their vehicle saying that they never received notification or a warning. When we ask about the letters that have been mailed to them and posted on their doors for the past 4 months they either deny getting them or expect us to have someone go there door, sit down with them with a cup of coffee and spell it out word for word. If you don't want to be towed DON"T PARK ILLEGALLY!!
Most HOA's consider it parked illegally if it is not parked in a marked stall with the appropriate parking permit clearly displayed. If you change cars or if a friend or family member is coming over, don't put your parking pass in the new vehicle! The permits are usually for a specific vehicle. Call the company that issued the permit and let them know that you are changing vehicles and need a new permit. Ask them if it is okay to display the old permit in the new vehicle until they get you a new one.
As far as getting authorization for the tow from the property manager, parking enforcement companies have pre-approval to tow if the vehicle meets certain criteria. You don't have to get approval from the property manager if you already have it. The towing company gets approval from the parking enforcement company who got the authority from the property manager.
To anyone that was following all the rules and was towed anyway, get all the information you can and contact the manager or owner of the parking enforcement company. If they arent available, leave a message for them and ask that they call you back. Don't deal with anyone unless it is the manager or owner. When you get the manager or owner on the phone REMEMBER! most people he or she talks to are lying and pissed off. Speak in a calm and informative manner and they will take you much more seriously.

Posted by iproducer4u on May 13, 2008 at 11:07 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Damn, seems like everyone got to know Don!! He did that in our complex as well, I remember a neighbor had just bought a new car on a Friday nite and could not get a new permit until Monday, but he parked his old car out on the street and the new one in his stall only to wake up in the morning and find a boot on his tire!! Not only was he threatened by Gold Coast Security, who at that time was also Gold Coast Towing until they got in trouble with the law and changed the name to Buena Towing, but lost his job because his wife took the other car and he had no means of transportation to work!! Like all have said, what comes around goes around!! He attempted to show proof and all tehy wanted was that $$$ sign to release the vehicle!!

Posted by genndan on May 13, 2008 at 11:13 a.m. (Suggest removal)

My HOA president is tied to these two companies and fortunately I haven't had any trouble. I feel for the many people who have lost money due to this issue and I hope that everyone gets what they deserve.

Posted by pjlove10 on May 13, 2008 at 11:17 a.m. (Suggest removal)

ITS ABOUT FREAKIN TIME!!! I cannot tell you the amount of times GOLD COAST SECURITY has ripped me off. I have complained and wrote letters to management, no success. This evens the score a bit. they claim to be "protecting" and "just doing their job". But they continuously break the law and lie about the situation. Hope the go out of business.

Posted by thetruthsayer1 on May 13, 2008 at 11:22 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Like the other post said all he had to do was call the parking enforcement company and let them know he bought a new car.It's just that easy.And his vehicle wouldn't have gotten towed.But he already knew the rules of his complex and parked his car anyway and didn't bother trying to inform anyone.

Posted by pjlove10 on May 13, 2008 at 11:26 a.m. (Suggest removal)

BigA - You're a boldfaced lier. There, I said it. You people are looking to make money, bottom line. I'd like to hear a phone conversation between you and a client. I bet it goes like this, "Yes, I am calling because Ileft my car in the alley to unload a piece of furniture. I own my place, and I have a visible permit, with my emergancy lights on as well, and the security guard didnt want to listen to anything I had to say." Here's you, "Ma'am/Sir, Sorry... appeal it."

See what you rentacops don't understand is that there are reason's and circumstances for everything, maybe if you guys would listen and try to resolve the issue and complaint things would be easier. But you don't, because you are in the business of MAKING A PROFIT. So don't sit there and say that people that complain are lying. Typical...

Posted by UdontKnowMe on May 13, 2008 at 11:31 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Yes, finally these CROOKS are seeing the tables turn. I know of OTHER TOW COMPANIES that do this and worse, these thieves also steal property in the cars. Maybe, there are some legitimate towing companies, and those that are should not take offense to the comments. I was surprised that nothing was mentioned about the theft of vehicles, or the damage done to vehicles. I however know first hand that there are some illegal things these CROOKED TOW companies do. To top it off, at times they even work with CROOKED cops. It is sad and there should DEFINITELY be investigations in the other Illegal Towing procedures that have taken place. These are sad times we are living in.

Posted by SoCalArmyBrat on May 13, 2008 at 11:36 a.m. (Suggest removal)

From personal experience I can say that all tow drivers I know are decent men who work hard to earn a living for their families. I don't know the two men in custody, nor am I familiar with anyone from Buena Towing.

However, I'm not surprised GCS was involved. It's common knowledge that the company expects its employees to tow the company line, and those who don't are quickly shown the door. In this day and time some men and women would probably be afraid of negative word getting out to their next employer. Don't blame the employees.

Posted by 805grl on May 13, 2008 at 11:50 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I wonder if these are the same companies that towed about 12 vehicles from an area near Garcia's mortuary in Oxnard about two months ago??

My family was parked in a private parking lot behind the mortuary and they towed 12 of my family members cars during the services!! Disgracefull!! And charged each of them $300 to get their cars back!

Posted by 805grl on May 13, 2008 at 11:51 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I wonder if these are the same companies that towed about 12 vehicles from an area near Garcia's mortuary in Oxnard about two months ago??

My family was parked in a private parking lot behind the mortuary and they towed 12 of my family members cars during the services!! Disgracefull!! And charged each of them $300 to get their cars back!

Posted by pjlove10 on May 13, 2008 at 11:54 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I understand that some people here currently or have worked for these types of security/towing companies. So, defend it all you want. Your right to. But, IN MY OPINION, you work for an immoral, sleezy business.

Posted by 805diva on May 13, 2008 at 12:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Caucasiod you obviously have not been stranded on the side of the road when your car has broken down or stranded in a parking lot with a flat tire or perhaps you have never locked your keys in the car. Because if you have then you would know how much help a tow truck driver is when they come to your rescue.
My brother is a tow truck driver and he is not a criminal, nor is he a predatory animal. He is just a caring man helpiny people of our society when they are in a bind. while earning a living for his wife and family.
you really have no idea what you are saying.
i would be proud to rearrange your dental work!

Posted by venturapagan on May 13, 2008 at 12:13 p.m. (Suggest removal)

The DA needs to check out R&R Towing; they are just as shady, and the sad part is, this is the default towing company that the VPD calls. They snatch up a vehicle after an auto accident, don't tell the owner where they're taking it, and when they find out where their car is, charge obscenely high fees to bail it out. Happen to close friend. Recent personal experience of this, driver kept asking if I was SURE I wanted to take to dealer shop. If I hadn't had the key, when I insisted on the dealer, he'd have taken off with it. Dealer cringed when he saw tow truck company & commented on the fact they're shady as well.

Posted by pgonzales55 on May 13, 2008 at 12:26 p.m. (Suggest removal)

OH MY GOSH SO MANY UPSET PEOPLE WELL I ALSO HAD ENCOUNTER WITH **BUENA TOWING AND GOLD COAST TOWING. AND CAR WAS PICK UP AT FEW MINS AFTER MIDNITE FRIDAY ***SO THAT THE WEEKEND PICK UP CHARGE CAN BE COLLECTED SO WE WERE TOLD WEEKEND CHARGES...YEAH RIGHT ... .. AND WELL I GUESS WE WILL ALSO BE GOING TO FILE A CLAIM ...

UPSET NOT A VERY NICE THING TO BE DOING JUST READ ON ALL THIS COMPLAINTS SOMETHING IS WRONG.

Posted by JamaicaClipper on May 13, 2008 at 1:07 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Ron aka Bam Bam Just in case you have forgotten its called 10851 of the california code. FYI.

Posted by BigA on May 13, 2008 at 1:14 p.m. (Suggest removal)

to: pjlove10
First off, all companies exist to make a profit, deal with it. Secondly there is a big difference between someone who like you said is just parking to unload a piece of furniture and someone who is blocking traffic for several hours while they move into their home. The problem is that both people call us with the same story. Suddenly the guy that has a huge moving truck thats been blocking cars in their parking spots for the past 5 hours has only been there for a few minutes.
I would assume that if you couldn't get to work because someone blocked you into your parking spot, you'd be angry. I also assume that you would again be mad at the security guard for not doing his job. When someone calls in with a story like yours we usually check it against the officer reports and management requests. We find from the comparison that usually about 90% of the calls are tenants lying because they don't want to pay the bill. People who have a valid reason to park illegally need to contact the management company or parking company to let them know that the vehicle will be there. If we tow it after that it's our fault and not yours.

Posted by pjlove10 on May 13, 2008 at 1:38 p.m. (Suggest removal)

BigA - Again, Always assuming we are lying. That's the problem. You just nailed it.

Thanks!

Posted by iam_caine on May 13, 2008 at 1:45 p.m. (Suggest removal)

"I work for a security company that also does parking enforcement"

Which, if you are perpetrating the same scam as Gold Coast Security/Buena Towing, makes you a car thief.

"From my experience most people that make these claims to the police or file lawsuits are bold faced liars"

So, you're saying that the Oxnard undercover police officers who arrested the two tow truck drivers and the security person (term used loosely) are liars?

Posted by iam_caine on May 13, 2008 at 1:46 p.m. (Suggest removal)

"I work for a security company that also does parking enforcement"

Which, if you are perpetrating the same scam as Gold Coast Security/Buena Towing, makes you a car thief.

"From my experience most people that make these claims to the police or file lawsuits are bold faced liars"

So, you're saying that the Oxnard undercover police officers who arrested the two tow truck drivers and the security person (term used loosely) are liars?

Posted by iam_caine on May 13, 2008 at 2:02 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Posted by themarshallss on May 13, 2008 at 9:46 a.m.:

"What year are you living in? Booting has been illegal for a few years now."

Well, it was NOT illegal in 2003, when the Gold Coast Gestapo Stormtroopers were hired by the HOA where I lived. They'd boot anywhere from 20 to 50 cars a day, at 85 bucks a boot, until someone with some brains actually filed an unlawful restraint of a motor vehicle charge against Gold Coast.

"And Do you really think Gold Coast would be in business if they did all their patrols for free?"

Of course they would, if they were keeping all the fines, boot removal fees, and towing charges for themselves. They had to be raking in thousands of dollars a day from their illegal activities, just at my condo complex alone.

"Man I wish my complex in Ventura would get that good deal of free patrols from security."

Maybe you should have your HOA give them a call? Something tells me they're going to be in need of every penny they can scrape up, to pay their soon-to-be substantial legal fees.

Posted by 805diva on May 13, 2008 at 2:05 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Caucasiod- are you asking me on a date? sorry, im gonna have to deline!

Posted by dgreene on May 13, 2008 at 2:20 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Please throw the book at these guys. Buena Towing is pretty much known for illegal towing. They should be thrown in jail. I've SEEN cars illegaly towed by Buena Towing.

Posted by ebrockway on May 13, 2008 at 2:52 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Well if you live in one of Camarillo's townhomes or condos and have recently called around about your space being taken by some inconsiderate moron, you already know that nobody wants to do that kind of towing. Buena was pretty much all there was left. A lady called up last week, she just got home from working her late shift and just wanted to go to bed. Somebody stole her numbered space, and there was noplace left for her. If you're reading these comments girl, you now know what I meant.
And all you tow haters, good luck when you break down and call your insurance company, motor club, cellphone roadservice, use the callbox. Guess who they all call? A tow company like the one you can't stand.
As to Buena and their practices, time will tell, but the kind of person who thinks it's ok to steal somebody's space is probably going to lie in court about it too.

Posted by iproducer4u on May 13, 2008 at 3:04 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Truthsayer1, he did call the company and notify them that he had purchased a new vehicle and they still booted it!! As a matter of fact, when my friend called a welder friend to come and cut the boot off with a torch, they tried to charge him for the damaged boot, and when he called an attorney, they said he did not owe anything after all, I wonder why?? Because they knew they were crooks and had done wrong in the first place!!!!

Posted by ebrockway on May 13, 2008 at 3:15 p.m. (Suggest removal)

On a side note, if you find your wheel booted and some time on your hands, put a small drop of Super Glue in the lock, pay the fine, and demand to have the boot taken off so you can go someplace important. Maybe put it on YouTube if you do.

Posted by Nuts805 on May 13, 2008 at 4:06 p.m. (Suggest removal)

If your parked illegal, then you have whats coming to you. If these tow truck drivers where doing this just for greed. Then they should have what's coming to them. Let's tow their cars and see what happens. It is apparent that it is some ones problem until it hits home. This is all about greed.

Posted by holdenon_2000 on May 13, 2008 at 5:27 p.m. (Suggest removal)

ebrockway

You make zero sense. First of all the law requires that a car be parked more than an hour before being towed, so a tow company does not want to come out, document the time, wait an hour come back and find the car has already moved. That is the responsibility of the Tow company, and Buena did not follow these laws. They know the laws and it is their responsibility to follow the laws. I know for a fact that they did not follow the laws, so they deserve all the punishment they have coming. The difference from having your car towed illegally and calling a tow truck to pick up your broken down car is huge. So don't try to give these guys credit for being heros, because the move broken down cars, and charge a decent amount for their service. Towing cars you are not authorized to tow is grand theft period. Parking in someones parking spot has no comparison to grand theft, so get your crimes right. If you dont like parking problems in condos, live in a house. Condos always create these problems by not providing enough parking for the tenants and guests. That is not the guest or tenants fault, it is the condo associations. Sounds like you need to speak to your association, and let them know they need more parking spots. If you feel everyone who parks in a unauthorized spot should be towed, then tell you government officials. Even police don't tow cars most of the time, they ticket them, and by the way a parking ticket, speeding ticket, or any other ticket is probably not going to cost $300+ dollars, like the overcharging tow truck service charges. How is it that Tow Truck Drivers think that its OK to break the law, since they think they are enforcing the law. TOW TRUCK DRIVERS DID NOT STUDY CRIMINAL JUSTICE. THEY ARE NOT COPS, OR IN A POSITION OF AUTHORITY. STICK TO PICKING UP BROKEN DOWN CARS, AND QUIT TRYING TO BE COPS. AND THAT GOES FOR SECURITY OFFICERS, THEY ARE WITNESSES, THATS IT. THEY CANT EVEN LAY THEIR HANDS ON THIEVES IN THE PARKING LOT. THESE GUYS NEED A REALITY CHECK. PUNKS, THATS ALL THEY ARE. ANOTHER THING THEY CANT TOW THE VEHICLE IF THE OWNER IS PRESENT, YET THEY DO IT ALL THE TIME.

Posted by oxnardian1950 on May 13, 2008 at 6:28 p.m. (Suggest removal)

The Otani lot was one involved. They practically own the entire Downtown. Why do they make money off of cars getting towed? They are already millionaires! The rich get richer and the working class get poorer.

Posted by mommies4angels on May 13, 2008 at 6:30 p.m. (Suggest removal)

CAUCASIOD you have no idea what you are talking about!! My husband is a tow truck driver that works with dhatcher and ebrockway. The company they work for is owned by one of the NICEST and CARING guys I know! Just because one company is bad doesn't mean they all are!! That's like saying just because one cop is bad they all are. Just because you have a bad encounter with one company doesn't mean every company in that field is bad!! What do you do that makes you so much better then the rest of us anyway?? Why don't you give us all your name and the make and model of your car that way I can make sure none of the "predatory animals" (as you called the tow truck drivers)come and help you out!! And for your information my last name isn't strange sounding.

Posted by anonrp on May 13, 2008 at 6:53 p.m. (Suggest removal)

regarding of booting cars...Please read the California Attorney General's opinion that it may violate Vehicle Code 10852
http://ag.ca.gov/opinions/pdfs/03-120...

Posted by ebrockway on May 13, 2008 at 7:06 p.m. (Suggest removal)

holdenon_2000;
Since you obviously have a law degree, you should have no trouble understanding the actual law.

http://www.dmv.ca.gov/pubs/vctop/d11/...

Pay particular attention to (l) (1) (A).
Where exactly do you come up with this one hour garbage anyway? You mean people have a whole hour to park anyplace they choose, even if we all up and park in your driveway?
“Towing cars you are not authorized to tow is grand theft period.”
Yes, it is grand theft, you’re very good!
The security company is authorized by the management of the parking facility, so it’s not exactly as cut and dried as you may think. The problem is when they start towing without authorization from other areas where they don’t have agreements, which is exactly what is alleged in these arrests. So where did I argue that point with you? I didn’t.
They are also required to have proper signage…just read the law for yourself, then come back and blabber.
And I hold no one at that company up as a “hero”? In fact, where do you get any of that from, because it’s not from what I said. And yes, they are definitely required to drop the vehicle and may only charge half the fee if the owner of the vehicle shows up.

Posted by DOWN2BISS on May 13, 2008 at 9:17 p.m. (Suggest removal)

What we so frequently remember is that there are good apples and bad apples in every basket. Most tow companies especially in Ventura County are honest hard working individuals. This includes the drivers of these reputable companies. Others are not so honest and try to use the "letter of the law" to victimize people for pure profit. When you do unethical conduct, you just do not know when the Grim Reaper is going to come knocking on your door.

Posted by coppertonegal50 on May 13, 2008 at 9:19 p.m. (Suggest removal)

After reading the article and some of the comments and seeing a news report this evening on Telemundo about the illegal towing, I felt I had to put my 2 cents in about the subject. First of all, all towing companies should not be critizied for how a few lousy ones conduct their business. Secondly, to 805grl, you said your family's cars were towed during a service at Garcia's Mortuary. Were these cars parked in Garcia's private parking lot or were they parked in another private company's parking lot? I am sorry for your loss, but if your cars were parked illegally in someone else's private parking lot then they should be towed.How would you feel if someone you didn't know parked in your driveway(private property) without your permission. Thirdly, to the Oxardian1950, yes, Otani's PRIVATE PARKING LOT was involved in one incident. The Otani family pay the taxes on their PRIVATE PARKING LOT to provide parking for their customers. And how do you know they own most of downtown? Do you know them personally? Don't be a hater, Oxnardian1950, just because the Otani's have worked very hard their whole lives to have what they have. Bottom line don't park at Otani's if you are not going to eat there!!!!And lastly in the news report on Telemundo regarding this same subject... Isn't it ODD that the only eyewitness the news reporter talked to was a Garcia family member(from Garcia's Mortuary) in front of Otani's Restaurant. It makes me wonder, who started this whole investigation and why. It seems like it started this year during Lent time. When cars were getting towed from Otani's PRIVATE PARKING LOT because Garcia Mortuary client's were parking there. Well, guess what? They were parked there ILLEGALLY and they should have been towed. Garcia's Mortuary should provide parking for their clients and/ or let them know that they will be towed at their own expense if they park in anyone else's PRIVATE PARKING LOTS.
BOTTOM LINE:
DON'T PARK ILLEGALLY ON PRIVATE PROPERTY AND YOU WON'T GET TOWED!!!!!

Posted by Chevycowboy50 on May 13, 2008 at 9:26 p.m. (Suggest removal)

How Buena Towing does there stuff is wrong. I drive tow truck. We're not heroes or anything but we do help people everyday just as the police and fireman do. Hey even the plumbers rescue people everyday.
As for CAUCASIOD tow truck drivers are not the low of the low class in society. Everyday we put are LIVES on the line to get people off the freeway with cars passing us at 65+. Just since last month I know of 4 tow truck driver who have died or been hurt were they might not walk again for getting someone's wife, husband, daughter, or son off the freeway. So for you to say we're so LOW CLASS you can rethink what you are saying. There's going to be that day were your going to be stuck or over the side of a hill and a TOW TRUCK DRIVER WILL COME TO YOUR RESCUE.
I don't think everyone is at fault for what happen unless they knew what they were doing was wrong. But the manager/owner of the company should be put at blame because they are the one pushing it to be done. There are laws out there and a legit tow company have to know them. I know the ones on CHP or PD rotation get the laws sent to them or hand to them from the tow commander.

Posted by thetruthsayer1 on May 13, 2008 at 11:16 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Does very one realize Buena Towing only does PPI's they don't tow vehicles from city streets and so there for are not on rotation with PD.Since Garcia mortuary was mentioned they have always had no parking for their customers.They used to use a empty dirt lot on the side of there building and the rest of the people would park at Vogue Mart the indoor swap meet place that is not owned by Garcias Mortuary and then they get upset that vehicles were towed from there.This problem is Garcias Mortuary and not the tow companies or security company who were hired by the owners of these places who were tired of not having parking for their customers to park.How would you guys like it if you couldn't park at your own business?

Posted by oxnardian1950 on May 14, 2008 at 12:07 a.m. (Suggest removal)

coopertonegal: Yes, I do know the Otani's. I used to live across the street from them. They are the most entitled people I know. They have this aura. Yes, they are one of the oldest and wealthiest families in town. but you dont have to wear your wealth. I mean c'mon they all live in really nice homes (most of them wedding gifts), wear expensive suits, and drive really nice cars. Because of their wealth and landholdings, they have monopolized the downtown. It's not fair. And everytime one of the children get in trouble, here comes grandpa with a suitcase of money to get them out. They should put hte power to good use. I'm just saying, nobody uses their parking lot so they should be good neighbors and share. I would.

Posted by cwgrlsweetie2001 on May 14, 2008 at 12:29 a.m. (Suggest removal)

TOW TRUCK DRIVERS ARE HARD WORKING PEOPLE JUST LIKE EVERYONE ELSE. HOW MANY OF YOU, HAVE CALLED ON A TOW TRUCK DRIVER TO COME AND HELP YOU? IF YOU PARKED ILLEGALLY TO BEGIN WITH, YOU SHOULD BE TOWED.PEOPLE THAT PARK ILLEGALLY DONT READ THE SIGNS THAT ARE POSTED AND THEY SHOULD. OXNARD PD SHOULD BE FOCUSING ON THIER GANG PROBLEM.PEOPLE NATURALLY GRIPE AND COMPLAIN WHEN THEY WERE IN THE WRONG.I KNOW A TOW TRUCK DRIVER AND HE HAS HAD A KNIFE PULLED ON HIM HE HAS BEEN SPIT ON, AND HIT. HOW MANY OF YOU COULD HANDLE THAT WHILE TRYING TO DO YOUR JOB? WHEN YOUR CAR GOES OVER A CLIFF WHO PULLS IT BACK UP? NOT A COP,NOT A BYSTANDER... A TOW TRUCK DRIVER... WOW!!! IMAGINE THAT, SOMEONE THERE TO HELP YOU.A "GATE FEE" IS CHEAPER THAN WHAT YOU WOULD PAY AT POLICE IMPOUND PER DAY. SO JUST REMEMBR THE NEXT TIME YOU NEED HELP ON THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND YOU HAVE TO CALL A TOW TRUCK DRIVER, TRY PUTTING YOURSELF IN THIER SHOES AND TRY DOING THIER JOB. IF YOU HAVE TO CALL SOMEONE " LOW CLASS" YOU TOO ARE "LOW CLASS".

Posted by dairyclown on May 14, 2008 at 1:43 a.m. (Suggest removal)

The same thing is going on in Santa Paula at the Condos on Ventura St. and Palm. Buena Towing, Gold Coast Security and their BS parking tickets.
However I caught them in the act and the Santa Paula PD made them remove the boot from my car and leave. Why not include RMP Services the Property Manager who employs these Thugs. The Gold Coast Security Punk can run to his car very fast and leave if he has a need to. Like not getting His A** kicked.

Posted by dairyclown on May 14, 2008 at 1:49 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Buena Towing is not a legitimate towing company. They only exist to tow for Gold Coast Security. AAA does not use them as they can't meet standards. Remember RMP Services, Gold Coast Security Buena Towing. They work together!

Posted by dairyclown on May 14, 2008 at 1:53 a.m. (Suggest removal)

As for Bamieh he is just ticked off he is not D.A. and is trying to get even by representing scum.

Posted by Randy on May 14, 2008 at 7:31 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I know almost all tow truck drivers who drive for the tow companys who are contracted to the city of Oxnard and they are decent hard working people. I also think that if you are stupid enough to park your vehicle illegally then you should have to pay the proper fees to get it back. Read the signs. I also applaud Oxnard Police Department for doing their job in a sting. I love it. If the towing companys in Ventura are realy illegaly towing vehicles, I think I would get me a device (bolt cutters or whatever) and go to their storage yard and remove my vehicle just like they did, illegaly. I realy don't think anyone would file any charges on this. Besides, if your are in possession of your vehicle, how can they prove who removed it, unless they they have a witness or camera.

Posted by 805grl on May 14, 2008 at 7:42 a.m. (Suggest removal)

coppertonegal50...
My family that was towed went to Oxnard PD and Guess what! They were all towed illegally by the same guard and tow truck driver who were arrested..hmmm -And Garcia's actually told our family that they could park there... then they were all towed within 20 minutes of parking there. So dont say anything until you know all the facts..our family is getting legal rep and will sue!

Posted by 805grl on May 14, 2008 at 8:07 a.m. (Suggest removal)

...sue- the towing co and security co.

Posted by 805grl on May 14, 2008 at 8:07 a.m. (Suggest removal)

...sue- the towing co and security co.

Posted by concerned1 on May 14, 2008 at 8:43 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Its not the fact that cars can be towed from private property. It is the way Gold Coast Security and Buena Towing operate.

Security companies are supposed to use a public tow company (the same police use) to keep checks and balances.

However, when Don Clobes got slapped for excessivly booting vehicles, he starting Gold Coast Towing. He got slapped again. Then created a corporation and had his father-in-law "on paper" own Buena Towing. His father-in-law most likely has never towed any cars himself and being a religious person, its surprizing he would allow himself to be part of Don's schemes.

Also being the owner of Gold Coast Security, he would drive for the newly created tow company and tow vehicles from the properties that he is supposed to protect. Thats a huge conflict of interest.

Also tow companies are not supposed to "prowl" for cars to tow. Buena Towing is out looking for vehicles. They will either hook up the car and leave or in some cases call the security to sign the paperwork. (both the tow driver and security guard make money and when Don is doing both, he makes all the money)

Parking is a concern for many places and the need for a good service is important. But, a security company and tow company to really be one company, but, seperated by a piece of paper (corpporation documents), ultimately is illegal and unethical.

I have seen Buena Towing drive into a property, see a violating vehicle, hook up the vehicle and leave the property. Its not illegal for the vehicle to be removed, its ILLEGAL THEY WAY THEY DO IT!

I wonder how many clients cancel his services, its will be hard for Board Members and Property Managers deny they know what he does and they are now in liablity for still using him. I am sure he will use the lenghtly contracts he makes clients sign to try to keep them, however, if your illegally conducting business, no court will enforce your contract.

I hope the police caught them lying about towing cars illegally, then will be hard for him to defend himself in court. He is a good talker (BS'er) and its rather easy after the fact to make up documentation to win in court (not that its proven, just spectulation).

Its not if they will continue to break the law, its when will they get caught again!!!

They will only be in business if YOU HIRE THEM!!!!

Posted by concerned1 on May 14, 2008 at 8:44 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Oh and you have up to 1 year to sue him and get 3 times your tow bill back!

Posted by coppertonegal50 on May 14, 2008 at 8:52 a.m. (Suggest removal)

OMG, Oxnardian1950,
You don't know anything about the Otani family, especially not the family that owns Otani's Restaurant. You keep believing what you want about them; because it's obviously clear, you really don't know the family.
805grl,
Just because your cars were illegally towed does not mean you had the right to park in A PRIVATE PARKING LOT without the owner’s permission. You need to get your facts straight too. Again, DOES THE GARCIA FAMILY OWN THE PRIVATE PARKING LOT WHERE THEY GAVE YOU PERMISSION TO PARK? If they don't, which I believe are the "CORRECT FACTS", they had NO RIGHT TO LET YOU PARK THERE. OK? Once again, how would you like it, if someone parked in your driveway (PRIVATE PARKING) without your permission? Believe me, you would be calling the police and a towing company to solve your parking problem.
PEOPLE, PEOPLE, PEOPLE,
READ THE SIGNS IN PRIVATE PARKING LOTS, BEFORE YOU PARK THERE. You know if you parked in city parking that was clearly marked not to park there, you would be towed in a heartbeat, believe me the OPD would not wait an hour, to tow you. Huh? Just try to park in a city officials parking spot just to drop off your water bill or some city business that would take less than an hour and see how long it take the city to tow your car.

Posted by Daniel_Otani on May 14, 2008 at 9:55 a.m. (Suggest removal)

If you are a success, you will be disliked by some and will never be recognized for your all of your accomplishments. If you are a failure, people will talk of your mistakes and in many cases like you that much more. People are threatened by success, but that has not stopped us. The Downtown has been home to our businesses for well over 100 years and we plan to stay 100 more. We are going to take the high road on this one.

Posted by dhatcher on May 14, 2008 at 10:49 a.m. (Suggest removal)

To all of the people posting comments stating that not all tow companies are crooked, thank you. As said by chevycowboy, they are not trying to be heroes, they are doing their jobs to support their families. It is very hard work with terrible hours. They see alot of really horrible things when they respond to accidents on the freeway. The things the rest of us take for granted, like sleep, are what these guys deal with all the time. Give them a break. I agree that if this company is doing things illegally, then by all means, prosecute to the fullest. Let's also remember that we are not the judge or the jury for this. The only facts that we are aware of a the ones that have been published in the Star. Most of these guys are performing a necessary service that almost EVERYONE will need at one time or another. Don't bite the hand that feeds you. You never know when it will bite back.

Posted by shaver_one on May 14, 2008 at 11:02 a.m. (Suggest removal)

If you see a towng company illegally removing your car, don't argue with them. They won't listen to you. They don't care. Jot down all the information you can. Then, immediately CALL THE POLICE and report an auto theft. It will be up to the tow driver to explain why he/she stole the car. And, if illegally towed, they cannot charge you for the car's return.

Posted by 805grl on May 14, 2008 at 11:02 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I never said anything negative about Otani's or Garcias coppertonegal50 ...what are you talking about?? just giving you details!

Posted by dhatcher on May 14, 2008 at 11:04 a.m. (Suggest removal)

ravensnest13

With your reference to Double R towing, I would like to clarify that these people whom you have stated "Snatch" up cars after accidents are on Police Rotation and are required to do this. This is not snatching. These people are the ones that responded to the accident on Hwy 33 when my daughter was killed on April 20 of this year. Let me just tell you that they treated us extremely well. Please don't put the horse before the carriage.

Posted by archtmf on May 14, 2008 at 11:26 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Gawd, I've never seen so many heated comments for any story before, including the usual murders and gang banging. And they're all running 99% in favor of the investigation and the arrests. Look, the cops wouldn't have wasted 9 months and set up decoy cars if there wasn't something to this. The towing company and the security company are crooks, and the owners and the employees who participated should go to JAIL! Pure and simple. SHAME ON YOU Ron Bamieh for turning to the dark side and representing crooks like these and worse. I used to have admiration and respect for you. Now I have contempt.

Posted by coppertonegal50 on May 14, 2008 at 11:34 a.m. (Suggest removal)

805grl,
You really need to look at my postings again and REALLY pay attention to what you are reading. I never wrote that you said anything bad about anyone. OK? My posting was not only directed to you, there was a comment directed to Oxnardian1950.
BOTTOM LINE TO YOU: DON'T PARK ANYWHERE YOU DO NOT HAVE PERMISSION BY THE OWNER TO PARK.

Posted by VTAGIRL805 on May 14, 2008 at 11:35 a.m. (Suggest removal)

NOT ONLY IS THE TOW COMPANY RUN ILLEGALLY SO IS THE SECURITY COMPANY. MAYBE THE DISTRICT ATTORNEY SHOULD LOOK INTO THAT AS WELL

Posted by Truth_Hurts on May 14, 2008 at 11:38 a.m. (Suggest removal)

CAUCASIOD - I married to a tow truck driver, he and all his coworkers are upstanding law abiding hard working men...you clearly have your head up your butt. The man they work for has been in the business in Newbury Park for over 20 years and he is a very honest man. You know nothing about tow truck drivers...I hope you need one real soon.

I think it's funny that Oxnard PD is conducting stings on predatory towing practices...how about predatory fining linked to the impounding of cars? Last time I checked...Oxnard charged over 500 bucks to release an impounded car...that's about $400 more than any other city in the county...maybe they should sting themselves while they're at it.

And yes I think that alot of people don't pay attention to where they're parking nor do they consider that they may not have permission to park on the private property they are parking on...Just because it's private...doesn't automatically mean you can't be towed.

I think it's great that PD is paying attention and regulating this sort of thing...becuase it gives other companies a bad name...most people I know in the business are just trying to provide an honest service and make a living...yet they get a bad rap and get named the "lowest of the low" because of deadbeats like this.

Posted by newshog on May 14, 2008 at 11:49 a.m. (Suggest removal)

It is unfortunate that some towing companies are bad apples. To the people who got towed for parking illegally in the parking lots that has the correct signs posted deserved it. But it seems to me that the City of Oxnard is the main problem. They are letting some businesses operate without enough or no parking requirements for their customers needs. The businesses that have proper parking for their customers are the one's that have the burden of the illegal parking issues and all that goes along with it. READ the signs, OBEY the laws and have RESPECT FOR OTHER PEOPLES PROPERTY. Blame the City of Oxnard for their downtown favoritism policies.

Posted by venturapagan on May 14, 2008 at 3 p.m. (Suggest removal)

dhatcher-I'm sorry for your loss...and I can imagine that has to be a difficult job sometimes, but I have a close personal friend who had bad dealings with Double R,and they DID snatch up her car after an accident without telling her where it was going, and charged her more than the car was worth to bail it out when she found it a few days later. She literally turned around and the car was gone. The two individuals from Double R I have dealt with in the past did NOT give me a warm fuzzy, either. One was for an accident, one to tow a broken down car to a mechanic. I am NOT impressed with them....IMO

Posted by dhatcher on May 14, 2008 at 4:01 p.m. (Suggest removal)

reavensnest13

Sorry about your bad experience with them. There are two sides to every coin. That's all that I was trying to point out. No bad feelings intended. And again, not all tow companies are like that. The one I work for is very honest and always, always puts the customer first.

Posted by star on May 14, 2008 at 4:22 p.m. (Suggest removal)

If you park your car illegally, it can be an incredible nuisance. But if nobody complains, is it really a nuisance?

Sure, I'd be cheesed off if I owned a parking lot and some neighboring business told his customers to park in my spaces, even if it was for a funeral. But which is worse:
Parking illegally
or
Towing illegally?

Buena Towing will carefully parse any sign or contract to defend towing a vehicle and charging outrageous fees. But when the DA carefully parses laws regulating the towing industry, people jump up to say that's not fair?

Posted by bbofvta on May 14, 2008 at 4:31 p.m. (Suggest removal)

It is always refreshing to hear Ron Bamieh talk of morals and ethics! This is an attorney who knows those words, in a manner, and speaks them in the press often

Posted by wccnhghprstss on May 14, 2008 at 4:36 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I feel the need to point out again, like thetruthsayer1, that Buena Towing specializes only in Private Property Impounds. Also Gold Coast Security specializes in Private Property Security, such as parking enforcement, and locking up pools so people aren't making noise during the middle of the night. It makes sense that the two companies would work together. They specialize in similar fields, and can help each other out. They are NOT owned by the same person, and they are NOT run by the same person, either. There is a common key phrase in these specializations- "Private Property". That means, it is up to the property owner to decide what is right and what is wrong on their property. If there is a contract between the property owner and the security company giving them permission to tow vehicles for violating the parking rules of said property, it is then at the security company's discretion what tow company they use. Do any of you realize that a security guard can actually legally kick a police officer off of a private property they are guarding? In short, whatever these two companies were doing, they had contracts to do so, and since it was on private property, not public property, it is frankly none of the police department's business.

Posted by toofargone on May 14, 2008 at 5:04 p.m. (Suggest removal)

OK, I have read everyones comments and Agree and disagree with most. But I am going to explain how it is SUPPOSED to be done with these apartment/condo complexes with the "security/towing" illegal parking stuff.

First off the signs MUST be in view of the vehicle that is in violation. Second the vehicle has to be parked there for over 1 hour. A tow truck driver that is called in there for a violator can mark down the plate number and parking location, leave a card on the vehicle and take a time date stamped photo of the vehicle in violation and the tow truck then has to RETURN atleast 1 hour after his/her initial observance of the violation. He then can take the vehicle. He/She then in turn MUST call the police department to advise them where the vehicle was taken from, the time and location and give the plate number and VIN on the vehicle. THAT IS A LEGAL Private Party IMPOUND. If these rules are not followed, by the sound of it these 2 companys were not following then they should be delt with in a legal matter. A tow company that is contracted with the police/highway patrol, has a contract they have to obide by. they can only charge what is on the contract police call or not for storage and gate fees.. I dont know what the "rule" is for NON police contracted companys, but i would imagine they have the right to charge what ever they want for storage and gate fees. Not all tow truck drivers are slimey sleezy men/women. I happen to be married to one, and i happen to have dispatched for one company. The truth will come out, BUT dont bash other companys because of one greedy man and his company. These TowTruck drivers risk their lives and well being to go out and help people in the middle of the night, they get up when the phone rings and leave their familys so that they can reunite a family member that has broken down somewhere. give them a brake. The others that is ;-) throw the book at the vilolators though.

Posted by ebrockway on May 14, 2008 at 5:43 p.m. (Suggest removal)

toofargone;
Where did you get that information? Oxnard City Ord? It's not in the Vehicle Code. This is the second time someone cited this "one hour" thing.

As to signage;
http://www.dmv.ca.gov/pubs/vctop/d11/...
22658 (a)(1) There is displayed, in plain view at all entrances to the property, a sign not less than 17 inches by 22 inches in size, with lettering not less than one inch in height, prohibiting public parking and indicating that vehicles will be removed at the owner’s expense, and containing the telephone number of the local traffic law enforcement agency and the name and telephone number of each towing company that is a party to a written general towing authorization agreement with the owner or person in lawful possession of the property. The sign may also indicate that a citation may also be issued for the violation.
(Amended Sec. 3, Ch. 609, Stats. 2006. Effective January 1, 2007)
You don't need a seperate sign for each parking spot, or visible within every vehicle, at least not according to the Veh Code.

Again, noplace can I find anything requiring a "one hour wait", think about it, that's a free pass for anyone to block you in, take your space, park in your driveway, and you'd have no recourse if they leave within an hour. That wouldn't fly, even in California.

Posted by wccnhghprstss on May 14, 2008 at 5:55 p.m. (Suggest removal)

first of all from what i am seeing is that all you people that are making complaints and whining and crying cant read.There are signs posted at all these complexes and business. But i guess if you pull on a property and decide not to read the posted signs then that makes it perfectly legal. Maybe you need a security guard to come out there and point the signs out for you maybe even read them to you. I have been in security and have done the parking enforcement thing and so far what i can see is everyone that gets caught and if it be towed or booted swears that they are completly in the right and by no means is anything your fault. For all of you people out there that cant understand why you got towed or booted and have to call the police department or an attorney i feel sorry for you. The easiest thing you could have done is got up off the couch and walked out to the entrance of your complex or business and READ THE SIGNAGE. Then you would have an idea why your vehicle is missing or even why your vehicle had been booted.Hopefully Gold coast security and buena beat this wrap and everyone of you all get towed agian. Another thing you people that are on here making threats and statig i hope you have dental insurance why dont you pull your heads out and grow up you all are nothing but talk

Posted by coppertonegal50 on May 14, 2008 at 6:07 p.m. (Suggest removal)

thank-you, ebrockway for clearing up the misinformation about the 1 hour waiting period. I agree with you, it would be a free parking pass for everyone.

Posted by Bountyhunter2004 on May 14, 2008 at 6:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Do you know that the Police Dept sets the Tow fee and Gate fee $143.00 per hour and after hour gate fee $70.00 . If that is over charging put the tow commander in jail. Tow truck companys can't charge what they want the police control all it. I have worked for Ventura Towing,Payless Towing,McCulloch Towing,Lynn's Towing, Huemene Towing,Night Hawk Towing, Iron Eagle Towing,Bob Carlson Towing,Jim's Towing,Bob's Towing. all tow fee set by Police Dept.,lock up all the tow company do to fee set by Police Dept.

Posted by dairyclown on May 14, 2008 at 6:28 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Dear Wiccen High Priestess, learn spelling and grammer before you comment. What goes on on Private Property is Police Business. A Security Guard has NO powers only to observe. So before you talk out your a** again.....

Posted by Bountyhunter2004 on May 14, 2008 at 7:10 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I have checked out this Oct-24-07 Governor Signs Predatory Towing Prevention Act that Officer Randey Cole talked about yes it was passed in New Jersey do to no control in towing Company in New Jersey . I can't find any law passed in Calif. We have a Tow commander in every city in Calif. It could be that no one in Calif. is going to sit and wait 1 hour to get a car towed out of there parking space, free pass for one hour, Not one of any towing company I have worked for in Oxnard: Bob's Towing, McCulloch Towing,Payless Towing, Oxnard Towing ,and all above Towing company are on Oxnard Police rotation run by a tow commander in Oxnard Police Dept have to wait one hour or Knock on people doors looking for driver of that vehicle, none of the code enforcement officer wait one hour or knock on doors ? If you call these tow company they will tell you to call Buena Towing they are set up for it we are not .

Posted by genndan on May 14, 2008 at 9:10 p.m. (Suggest removal)

wccnhghprstss - you posted "They are NOT owned by the same person, and they are NOT run by the same person, either." How do you know that? Where did you get your information? I think it's only fair that the rest of us have the same information. It's been a few years since I've sat on my HOA board with Don Clobes but I do remember he was the owner of both companies.

As I posted earlier, I've had no issues and I hope not to in the future. The problem seems to be that many people have had the unfortunate luck of having their vehicle towed (illegally or not) and have had to pay out high rates. As another poster stated, if this wasn't considered an issue, there wouldn't have been such an extensive investigation along with a sting.

I agree - read the signs! It's not that hard, unless the signs are hidden behind trees or bushes. If that's the case, take a picture. If it's not the case, then you're in the wrong.

I hope everything gets squared away and that everyone gets what they deserve - good or bad.

Posted by toofargone on May 14, 2008 at 10:35 p.m. (Suggest removal)

The waiting one hour is usually what the HOA or private property owners have in their contract with the security and tow companys that deal with this kind of thing legitimately. Most reputable tow companys WILL NOT do a Private Party Impound anymore, they refer the calls to the smaller tow companys in town that they are in. As for the signage, think about it, I did think about it, and frankly it would be worth it to the property owners to post MORE signs if they are having parking problems like this. Everything will get worked out. I was just stating what happened with the company that we worked for, that was the policy that they had set up with the security/HOA/apartment complex's. The security would call out the tow truck after the vehicle sat there for 30 mins, with the assumption that it would take the tow truck the other 30 mins to get to the vehicle in question. IF there were ever any problems with vehicles being "taken wrongly" there was proof that there wasnt. Common sense to make the effort to protect the companys involved, for instances like this. I am in no way DEFENDING the company involved, I myself have had a run in with them, where I had broke down, called the company that my husband worked for, and said company showed up 10 mins later. Only for me to tell them that I DIDNT call them and that they could leave.. and they argued with me, only to have my HUSBAND show up in the company tow truck and run them off, to have THEM accuse my husband of "chasing" calls... they had to of been monitoring the "radios" to even know that the tow was called. Everyone needs to be careful with those guys... i never stated or quoted any vehicle code, nor did i even mention one. i just stated the facts that we dealt with in our PPI calls, and contracts.

Posted by single_usa_man on May 14, 2008 at 10:42 p.m. (Suggest removal)

"A Security Guard has NO powers only to observe"

dairyclown,
Know what you talk about before you post!

They are not limited to ONLY observe and report.

http://www.bsis.ca.gov/forms_pubs/poa...

Pages: 24-26, 27-28, 43-46, 55-56.

And Google this:
California Penal code section 490.5 Subsections (f) and (g).

Posted by dairyclown on May 14, 2008 at 11:01 p.m. (Suggest removal)

To single USA man I have as much power as a Security Guard. Any Citizen can make a Citizens arrest, and any Citizen can question a person as to their intentions. I stick by what I said, They may observe and report and contact the proper agency. I think you need to take another look at the site you directed me to. Or do you see only what You want to see. I bet you are a Security Guard!

Posted by dairyclown on May 14, 2008 at 11:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Gold Coast and Buena Towing are not typical of most security or towing companies. The only exist to make money towing cars either legally or illegally. And if I was a Security Guard or Tow Truck Driver for a legitimate Security or Towing Company I would be offended.

Posted by dairyclown on May 15, 2008 at 12:02 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Wiccen High Priestess. I would love to see a Security Guard try to kick a Polce Officer off of private property. The Security Guard would soon be on his way to jail for interferring with a Police Officer. Then there was your comment about what goes on Private Property is not the business of the Police? Most crimes are commited on Private Property, such as Armed Robbery, Burglary, Meth Labs, Murder etc. So I guess if it did'nt happen on a public street or sidewalk or a public building it is none of the Police Departments business? Once again Security Guards are NOT law enforcement! They are paid to observe and Report.

Posted by single_usa_man on May 15, 2008 at 12:40 a.m. (Suggest removal)

dairyclown,
After reading back some of the posts, my post was intended for holdenon_2000
when he/she stated, "SECURITY OFFICERS, THEY ARE WITNESSES, THATS IT. THEY CANT EVEN LAY THEIR HANDS ON THIEVES IN THE PARKING LOT." So If I owe you an applogy, then my bad! Too many posts here!

But I did Post "They are not limited to ONLY observe and report". Yes, their job is to observe and report, but that is NOT the only thing they are allowed to do.

And by the way, I AM NOT defending Gold Coast Security or Buena Towing!
No, I am not currently a Security Guard as you state. But I do have 15 years of wearing a uniform, not just a Security uniform!

Posted by wccnhghprstss