A Gaston County, North Carolina, tow company is facing legal scrutiny over allegations of illegal towing practices, with a trial set to begin in July 2027. The City of Gastonia filed a civil lawsuit against Jack's Towing and Recovery Service, LLC, on March 20, accusing the business of trespass tows from private parking lots and refusing to accept credit card payments.
The complaint outlines several instances where the company, owned by Marshall Gregory, is alleged to have towed vehicles from private properties across Gastonia, including a church. The owners were reportedly required to pay cash to retrieve their vehicles, with some being charged over $1,000. The company's actions have been widely criticized on social media.
Gastonia's Code of Ordinances stipulates that no towing service can conduct a trespass tow from a private parking lot for compensation without complying with specific provisions. These provisions include posting notice signs and allowing payment by credit and debit cards. Jack's Towing and Recovery Service, LLC, is accused of failing to adhere to these standards.
The business was administratively dissolved by the North Carolina Secretary of State on November 21, 2025, for failure to file an annual report. However, it was reinstated on or about March 20, the same day the lawsuit was filed.
North Carolina Attorney General Jeff Jackson has warned towing companies across the state that his office will aggressively pursue those accused of predatory towing practices. "If you're a towing company that follows the rules, you're good to go," Jackson said. "But if you're making a buck by breaking the law, we've got a new playbook for going after you, and we will."
Court documents indicate that Gregory denies the allegations, stating that he is "not personally liable for the obligations, debts, or alleged ordinance violations of Jack's Towing solely by reason of being its member, owner, manager, or other limited liability company official."
The city is seeking an injunction to prevent the company from violating city towing ordinances in the future. The trial is scheduled to begin on July 12, 2027.
The case serves as a reminder of the importance of adhering to local laws and regulations, particularly in industries like towing, where there is a potential for abuse. It also highlights the role of local governments in protecting their citizens from predatory business practices.
The lawsuit against Jack's Towing and Recovery Service, LLC, underscores the need for transparency and fairness in the towing industry. It is a testament to the community's vigilance and the city's commitment to ensuring the rights of its residents are upheld.
As the trial approaches, the outcome will likely have significant implications for the company and the broader towing industry in Gaston County. The case has already sparked a conversation about the need for reform and better oversight in the industry.
The public's reaction to the allegations against Jack's Towing and Recovery Service, LLC, has been one of anger and disappointment. Many residents have expressed concerns about the potential for abuse in the towing industry and the need for stricter regulations to protect consumers.
The city's pursuit of legal action against the company is a significant step in addressing these concerns. It demonstrates the city's commitment to holding businesses accountable and ensuring that the rights of its citizens are protected.
As the trial unfolds, it will be closely watched by both the community and the industry. The outcome could set a precedent for how local governments handle similar cases in the future.
In the meantime, the case against Jack's Towing and Recovery Service, LLC, serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers of unregulated industries and the importance of holding businesses accountable for their actions.
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