Evidence shows SWFT returned to repair shop and removed Jeep without authorization, staff says
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Summary
PUC investigator Joseph Potts presented security video and an invoice showing SWFT Towing left a 2013 Jeep Patriot at AutoTech Plaza and then returned the next day to tow it away without the repair shop's authorization; staff seeks refunds and penalties in CPAN 144626.
At the Colorado Public Utilities Commission hearing, investigator Joseph Potts described evidence that SWFT Towing returned to a repair facility and removed a customer's vehicle without the facility's authorization.
Potts said the Commission received a complaint from Chester Norton, owner of a 2013 Jeep Patriot. Security video from AutoTech Plaza (admitted as hearing exhibits) shows the Jeep was left at the repair facility late on June 20, 2025. Potts testified SWFT's tow truck returned the next day and took the vehicle; he said the facility's manager later reviewed camera footage and confirmed the sequence.
Potts introduced an invoice provided to the complainant showing a charge of approximately $760 with line items for hook fee, mileage and storage. He testified he contacted the Colorado Springs Police Department and El Paso County Sheriff's Office and was told this particular tow was not reported as a private-property impound to dispatch, which PUC rules require when a tow is a PPI.
Potts said he asked SWFT to provide a tow authorization, proof that it completed the statutory registered-owner and lienholder search and verification of notification procedures, and a law-enforcement case number for the tow. "They did not provide any of that documentation," he testified. Potts recommended penalties in that case and full refunds to affected vehicle owners where violations were proven.
Defense counsel questioned whether signage changes or contract term changes at the property could explain the situation; Potts and investigator Lloyd Swint testified they surveyed the property and found several entrance points lacking required towing-notice signage and that signage where present did not display the carrier's name as required by rule.
The judge closed the evidentiary record; the PUC will issue a written decision determining whether to impose penalties or order refunds based on the record presented.
Source: testimony and exhibits admitted at the Colorado Public Utilities Commission consolidated hearing.