Stephenson County to seize, impound vehicles used in crimes under new ordinance
FREEPORT, Ill. (WTVO) — The Stephenson County Sheriff’s Office will begin enforcing a new vehicle impound ordinance on Wednesday.
The new rule was passed by the Stephenson County Board on June 18th, which allows police to seize vehicles used in connection with certain crimes or traffic offenses, starting July 9th.
According to police:
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Vehicles involved in specific offenses—such as DUI, driving with a suspended license, fleeing from police, and drug-related crimes—may be impounded on the scene.
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A $350 administrative fee will be required to retrieve any impounded vehicle. This fee helps offset the cost to taxpayers for the towing, processing, and investigation of these incidents.
Vehicle owners will have the right to request an administrative hearing to contest the impoundment.
All collected fees will go into a Sheriff’s Tow Fund, used only for law enforcement needs such as police vehicles, fuel, and equipment.
Vehicles not bonded out of the impound lot within 35 days can be subject to disposal.
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