In short, after an accident, I called AAA for a tow truck. The driver claimed to be AAA, offered money to tow my car, and suggested a shop owned by his friend for repairs. I agreed to tow my car to his lot, but when I contacted the shop, they couldn't pick it up until Monday or Tuesday. By Thursday, my car hadn't moved, and the tow lot couldn't provide a pickup date, claiming they were booked until January.

I contacted another shop willing to pick up my car the next day. However, when they tried to retrieve it, the tow lot owner demanded $3000 cash for the release. The shop declined, leaving my car stuck. Now, the tow lot owner is demanding over $5000 cash. The insurance company is willing to reimburse the shop for the tow and release costs.

Suspecting potential tax evasion and insurance fraud, I'm seeking advice on how to handle this situation. State law dictates that tow companies must inform law enforcement when towing a car, and the maximum storage fee allowed is $35 per day. If anyone has experienced a similar situation or has insights on resolving this issue, I would appreciate guidance.

EDIT: The name of the company is Up n Down Towing based out of Norwood.

EDIT 2: I FINALLY got my car. Here is the outrageous bill this mf gave me. https://imgur.com/a/NY39b9N