LAPD Will No Longer Impound Vehicles of Unlicensed Drivers

From the Los Angeles Times: “The Los Angeles Police Department has imposed a moratorium on impounding the vehicles of unlicensed drivers amid concerns that the practice may be unconstitutional, officials said Tuesday. The decision touches on what has long been a hot-button issue, because many unlicensed drivers who have their cars towed are undocumented immigrants who cannot get driver’s licenses.”   The LAPD issued the moratorium as a result of the 2005 U.S. Court of Appeals decision in Miranda vs. City Cornelius.

Several California legislators including State Senator Gil Cedillo have proposed legislation thst would allow undocumented immigrants to be eligible for a driver’s licenses.  Senator Cedillo on his website has information on how to fight impounds, including a “Know your rights card” that details one’s rights if a car is impounded. Senator Cedillo also has a immigrant issues section on his website.

Thanks to Ana Maria Patino for this scoop!

KJ