The City of Long Beach is being sued over its "Boot and Tow" policy, which is accused of violating constitutional rights by allowing the warrantless seizure of vehicles for unpaid parking fines.
The lawsuit, filed on Nov. 27, 2024, in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of New York, was brought by Long Beach resident Anne Buff, who claims the policy infringes on her Fourth, Fifth, and Fourteenth Amendment rights.
Buff, represented by Campanelli & Associates, P.C., claims the city's actions violate her constitutional rights. According to the complaint, the policy allows for the seizure of vehicles from owners with outstanding parking tickets or those who have just received tickets. Buff's vehicle was seized on July 22, 2024, under these circumstances.
The complaint also highlights other instances where residents reportedly faced similar situations. For example, Anthony Alduino allegedly had to withdraw over $300 from an ATM after his car was blocked by a tow truck.
Similarly, Patricia DeVita was reportedly forced to pay $300 after a city employee’s vehicle blocked hers in a parking lot.
Buff is seeking a declaratory judgment that the city's "Boot and Tow" practices are unconstitutional, as well as compensatory damages of $75,000 for each count, attorney fees, and other relief as deemed appropriate by the court.
The lawsuit also calls for an injunction to prevent the continuation of the vehicle seizure policy.
Representing Buff is Andrew J. Campanelli from Campanelli & Associates, P.C. Case I.D. 2:24-cv-08260.