Memphis Car Impoundment Lot Battles Theft, Damage Claims

The city of Memphis is upgrading security at the city’s car impound lot after paying out more than $72,000 to settle a variety of theft and damage claims.

Mayor A C Wharton told The Memphis Commercial Appeal that the changes are being made as part of a broad overhaul of the General Services Division, which came under intense scrutiny under former mayor Willie Herenton’s administration.

Thieves have stolen laptop computers, navigation equipment, televisions and fog lights from vehicles. The city has paid $22,001 in claims for stolen items since August 2007. The city has paid $24,980 in claims for vehicles sold by accident over the last three years. Over the same time, the city paid $22,658 to settle claims for vehicles that were damaged while on the lot.

New lights and video surveillance are among the additions made to the lot.