Police Chief: How to Tow Illegally Parked Vehicles

To clear an illegally parked vehicle in Police Chief, confirm the violation, approach the car to select the tow interaction prompt, and call dispatch. You do not need to wait for the tow truck to arrive; once flagged, the system automatically dispatches a tow truck to remove the obstruction while you resume patrol duties.

Identifying Parking Infractions

Before calling dispatch, verify that the target vehicle is actually breaking local traffic rules:

• Check Curb Markings: Look for red curbs along your patrol route that prohibit stopping.
• Inspect Signs: Confirm nearby "No Parking" signs cover the exact spot where the vehicle is stopped.
• Assess Traffic Obstructions: Differentiate between legally parked cars and stationary vehicles blocking active travel lanes or emergency routes.

Flagging Vehicles for Impoundment

Once you confirm a violation, walk up to the target vehicle until the interaction prompt appears. Selecting the tow option alerts dispatch to send an automated tow truck to your location.

Because impoundment is handled by a secondary dispatch system, your direct role ends the moment the call is placed. Leave the scene immediately after tagging the vehicle. Standing around waiting for the tow truck wastes valuable shift time that should be spent responding to active emergency calls or covering patrol routes.

Managing Priorities and Delays

Parking enforcement generates precinct revenue and completes municipal quota objectives, but it must be balanced against higher-priority police work:

• Focus on Key Areas: Prioritize vehicles blocking busy intersections or high-traffic corridors over those sitting on quiet side streets.
• Account for Heavy Traffic: Tow trucks travel through live city traffic. If heavy congestion delays the responding truck, check your map periodically to confirm the vehicle was eventually removed.
• Maintain Operational Tempo: Use the following workflow on patrol: confirm the infraction visually, trigger the tow prompt, resume your route immediately, and review your map later to confirm clearance.