A1’s Towing & Hauling, a business that operates under the name A1’s Xclusive Auto, has once again had its towing permits temporarily revoked after semi-truck drivers brought complaints to the attention of lawmakers regarding the company’s illegal towing practices. During a meeting held by the Memphis, Tennessee Transportation Committee, several complaints were presented that alleged A1’s Towing of violating city and state ordinances, overcharging for towing and storage, and engaging in suspicious payment methods.
Tabrianna Foster, a Mississippi resident, testified before the committee about her own experience with A1’s Towing. Foster and her husband had their 18-wheeler towed from a truck stop even though it was parked legally. She was forced to pay $3,000 to retrieve her vehicle. Foster’s testimony, along with the numerous complaints from other truck drivers, prompted the committee members to suspend Cathey’s permits while an investigation is conducted.
The company has been the subject of investigations by both the Tennessee Highway Patrol and the Memphis Police Department. Fenn Church, the owner of Church Transportation, shared his experience with A1’s Towing, describing it as “horrible” and unlike anything he had encountered in his 23 years in the industry. Church recounted an incident where A1’s employees booted one of his driver’s trucks while the driver was still inside the cab and demanded a $272 fee for its removal. When the driver attempted to pay with a credit card, the A1 employee claimed it was taking too long and proceeded to tow the truck, resulting in a $4,500 fee to retrieve it.
In response to the ongoing complaints, city council members have requested that permit officers develop regulations for towing companies to prevent such misconduct in the future.
