Carjacking victim says he had to pay to get his vehicle back after it was impounded

JACKSON, Miss. (WLBT/Gray News) - A carjacking victim in Mississippi says he is frustrated after going through a lengthy process to retrieve his car and belongings from police.

Micheal Ransom says it was a standard night at work at area Shell station when things turned into a nightmare.

According to Ransom, he was standing outside the store during a smoke break on July 25 when he noticed two men approaching him.

“He had his accomplice to run up on me, and I had no other choice but to surrender,” Ransom said.

Ransom says one of the men pulled a gun on him and demanded the keys to his 2004 Nissan Armada.

Law enforcement was then called to the gas station.

Ransom says the Jackson Police Department ended up locating his vehicle, but he was also given a bill.

“I had to go downtown and pay the impound fee. I’m like, ‘You guys tow my car, I have to go downtown and pay the impound fee and have to come back out here and get my car?’” he said. “That makes no sense. I still have no idea where my phone is. I know it last pinged at the evidence garage downtown. I have no idea what JPD has from my vehicle or what the criminals have.”

After paying more than $150, Ransom has gotten his car back but has yet to receive other items, like his wallet and ID.

“I don’t know if I need to go and get my license replaced, buy a new phone, get a new social security card. I don’t know none of that,” he said.

Jackson Police Deputy Chief Sequerna Banks says it is policy that anyone with a car inside the impound lot is responsible for all storage and towing fees despite the circumstances.

She said in certain situations, the department does waive those fees.

The department said officers are continuing their investigation into the original stolen vehicle call.

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