Shocking Arrest: Rensselaer County Tow Truck Driver Linked to Car Theft Operation!
John Rivers, 43, a tow truck operator from East Greenbush, New York, has been arrested for allegedly running a car theft scheme through his business, Rivers Asset Recovery.
According to investigators, Rivers used his towing contracts with local businesses to tow vehicles from parking lots, only to sell them to scrapyards or used car dealerships without the owners’ knowledge. Authorities say he stole 17 cars over two years, with a combined value of $230,000.
The Office of the Attorney General (OAG), in partnership with the New York State Police, led the investigation. Attorney General Letitia James called the alleged scheme a “systematic effort to profit from theft and deception,” emphasizing her office’s commitment to tackling car theft.
By law, towing companies are required to inform car owners within five days of towing and to hold vehicles for 30 days before taking further action.
However, Rivers allegedly ignored these rules, selling the vehicles within days. His contracts included locations such as Walmart in Latham, Hannaford in Albany, and Home Depot in Rensselaer.
In March 2024, investigators conducted a sting operation, parking an undercover car in the Walmart lot. The car was towed to Rivers’ facility, but the owner was never notified. Two months later, police tracked the vehicle to a Massachusetts scrapyard, where it had been disassembled.
Rivers also allegedly made it difficult for owners to reclaim their vehicles. He either ignored their attempts or demanded excessive fees, reportedly charging $1,000 for each day a car was held. Of the 17 vehicles he allegedly stole, 12 were sold to car dealerships and five to scrapyards.
Rivers now faces multiple felony charges, including Grand Larceny in the third and fourth degrees and Scheme to Defraud. If convicted, he could face up to 20 years in prison.
State Police Superintendent Steven G. James praised the collaborative effort between law enforcement agencies, which included the Department of Motor Vehicles and the Division of Tax and Finance, in uncovering the scheme. Authorities have indicated that the investigation is ongoing.
This case highlights the importance of regulatory oversight in industries like towing, as well as the role of law enforcement in protecting property owners.
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