Urgent Investigation: License Plate Fraud Hits Jamestown Drivers

UPDATE: Serious allegations of license plate fraud are unfolding in Jamestown, NY, following an investigation that reveals disturbing patterns affecting local drivers. Mayor Kimberly Ecklund has confirmed that the city is responding to alarming reports of individuals who surrendered their license plates only to fall victim to fraudulent charges.

In a statement released earlier today, Mayor Ecklund emphasized, “The City of Jamestown is aware of serious allegations involving the potential misuse of license plates that were properly surrendered at the Jamestown DMV.” This urgent situation raises significant concerns for the community, as many residents are now facing hefty fees and penalties linked to plates they no longer own.

Multiple drivers have reported that after surrendering their plates at the Jamestown DMV, located at 512 West 3rd Street, they have been hit with thousands of dollars in toll violations. One case, that of Debbie Bonovitch, is particularly alarming. After surrendering her plate on June 5, 2023, she has faced nearly $6,000 in fraudulent toll charges from Delaware and Pennsylvania, as her old license plate number was found on a different vehicle.

“I want them to get to the bottom of it and not let it happen again,” stated Bonovitch, who has been overwhelmed by the barrage of bills and violations linked to her surrendered plate. Her experience reflects a broader issue, with several drivers reporting similar outcomes after visiting the DMV.

The Mayor’s Office is urging affected residents to take immediate action. They recommend contacting the Chautauqua County Clerk’s Office, filing a report with the Jamestown Police Department, and submitting a formal complaint to the New York State Inspector General’s Office. “Although this matter falls outside the City’s direct authority, we take these allegations seriously,” said Mayor Ecklund.

Compounding the issue, the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles is reportedly “actively investigating” these fraud concerns. Residents like Bonovitch have found the process of resolving these issues to be daunting, often encountering long hold times and conflicting information. “It’s just over and over again, it’s aggravating,” she expressed.

In light of these developments, the DMV’s operations in Jamestown will be closely scrutinized. As the investigation unfolds, residents are encouraged to report any irregularities and seek assistance navigating the complex bureaucratic system. Eddie Sundquist, Bonovitch’s attorney, highlighted the need for clarity and support for those affected, stating, “People really need a lot of help navigating through the bureaucracy.”

For those wanting to speak out or share their experiences, the Call 4 Action program is available to investigate individual cases further. Local authorities are committed to ensuring that concerns are addressed and that residents receive the necessary support.

As the situation evolves, stay tuned for further updates from the City of Jamestown and the DMV. Residents are advised to remain vigilant and proactive in protecting themselves against potential fraud.