A tow truck operator (who smelled like marijuana, and appeared high), attached devices to my car and caused damage to the plastic ground effects beneath. He refused to release my vehicle until he extorted $50.00 from me. When I called the company, the guy who answered the phone was abusive, and called me a liar for telling him they caused damage to my car. I've been parking in this same area for 10 years, and despite the protestations of numerous people (who came out to protest his actions, in my defense), he wouldn't release my vehicle until I had given him $50.00 (so he could buy more pot, probably). This is a "predatory towing" company, and these businesses are harming Saint Petersburg with their low-life, bottom-feeding practices. I'm filing a police report against american tow force, and I will be taking them to court for the damage they did to my car. These guys are professional extortionists