New Jersey is taking serious action against toll evaders, as the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey has revealed the names of the worst offenders in its latest effort to hold toll cheats accountable. On Wednesday, the authority unveiled its list of the top 10 individuals and companies who owe more than $1 million in unpaid tolls and fees. The announcement marks a significant escalation in the crackdown on toll scofflaws who have been causing financial strain on the state’s road infrastructure.
Port Authority Executive Director Rick Cotton emphasized the seriousness of the situation, highlighting the vital role toll revenues play in maintaining and improving the state’s roadways. “Toll evaders are not only breaking the law by avoiding their legal obligations on our roads, but they’re depriving our infrastructure of much-needed funds for maintenance and upgrades,” said Cotton. His statement serves as a stern warning to those thinking about skipping toll payments.
Rising Numbers of Toll Violations
According to the Port Authority, toll evasion has become an increasingly significant issue, with a 27% rise in toll-related summonses in 2024 compared to the previous year. So far, the Port Authority has issued 7,543 summonses to toll violators this year alone. The figures indicate the growing problem of people intentionally dodging toll payments and the efforts authorities are making to combat it.
In addition to the rising number of summonses, the Port Authority’s law enforcement team has also impounded 850 vehicles and arrested 90 individuals for various crimes such as using fake license plates and theft of services. These efforts have contributed to the recovery of nearly $18 million in unpaid tolls and fees in 2024.
Port Authority Chairman Kevin O’Toole made it clear that the agency’s officers are determined to ensure toll violators are held accountable. “Anyone thinking about ignoring their toll bill or tacking on a fake license plate should know that our officers are ready to hold you accountable,” O’Toole said.
Technology Plays a Key Role
Modern vehicle tracking technology has played a significant role in identifying and prosecuting toll cheats. The Port Authority has installed license plate readers at key crossings, making it easier for authorities to detect violators who intentionally bypass toll booths. The technology has been instrumental in tracking offenders and ensuring they are penalized for evading payments.
The Port Authority’s aggressive approach also includes the use of data collected from these systems to identify repeat offenders. By publicizing the names and toll amounts of the worst offenders, the authority hopes to send a strong message to the public about the importance of following the law and contributing to the maintenance of the state’s infrastructure.
The Worst Toll Evaders of 2024
The Port Authority’s list of the top 10 worst toll cheats of 2024 serves as a warning to others who may think they can get away with ignoring toll bills. Here are the offenders who owe the most:
- Mid Haulers LLC (Linden, NJ) – $341,779.15
- Worldwide Jubilee International LLC (Laurelton, NY) – $143,399.40
- Kia Trucking Inc. (Jersey City, NJ) – $130,354.88
- River Street Idealease LLC (Hackensack, NJ) – $101,743.53
- Lula Grant (Englewood, NJ) – $78,712.25
- Miguelina Gross (New York, NY) – $55,185.71
- BMT Logistics (Vineland, NJ) – $52,674.33
- Alex S. Bartusiavicius (Avenel and East Brunswick, NJ) – $52,276.07
- JMS VIP Limo Worldwide Corp. (Englewood, NJ) – $52,242.50
- James Twine Jr. (Somerset, NJ) – $46,426.83
These individuals and companies have racked up substantial toll debts, and the Port Authority is now holding them accountable by naming and shaming them publicly. By publishing this list, the agency hopes to deter others from evading tolls and ensure that all drivers contribute their fair share to the upkeep of New Jersey’s roads.
The Importance of Fairness in Tolling
Toll fees are essential for maintaining and improving transportation infrastructure. The funds collected from tolls go toward repairs, upgrades, and the construction of new roads, bridges, and tunnels, which benefit all drivers. When toll cheats avoid paying their fair share, it places an unnecessary burden on law-abiding citizens who do pay their tolls.
The crackdown on toll evasion is part of a broader effort by the Port Authority to ensure fairness in the toll system and to promote accountability among all drivers. Officials are committed to using technology, data analysis, and law enforcement resources to identify and penalize toll violators. The goal is not only to recover unpaid fees but also to send a strong message that toll evasion will not be tolerated.
A Clear Message to Toll Scofflaws
The Port Authority’s actions in 2024 serve as a strong reminder to drivers that avoiding toll payments is illegal and can result in severe consequences. With the rise in toll violations, authorities are stepping up enforcement efforts and utilizing advanced technology to catch those who attempt to dodge their responsibilities.
The release of the top 10 worst toll evaders is a powerful tool in this effort, publicly shaming those who owe the most in unpaid tolls. This strategy is designed to deter others from engaging in similar behavior and to reinforce the importance of paying tolls for the benefit of the state’s transportation infrastructure.
As New Jersey continues its crackdown on toll evaders, the message is clear: those who attempt to cheat the system will face consequences. The public shaming of these offenders is just one step in ensuring that the state’s roads remain funded and well-maintained for the benefit of all drivers.
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