A new tow policy in DeKalb is aimed at curbing rising crime rates by enacting a fee on drivers who are pulled over with outstanding criminal records.

The new fee is included in DeKalb’s recent towing policy change, which states anyone pulled over who has a criminal offense, like a warrant, or who is driving with a suspended license will have their vehicle towed, said Mayor Kris Povlsen. The idea for the new fee came from looking at expenses incurred by the department and comparing DeKalb with other communities.

“This is a common thing in municipalities,” said Cmdr. Jason Leverton.

Povlsen said the new policy and fee will help keep criminals and lawbreakers out of the community.

“This sends a clear message to visitors who come to our community to sell drugs or cause disturbances,” Povlsen said.

Cars can be reclaimed as long as they are not being used for evidence, but cars will only be released if the administrative tow fee is paid, Leverton said.

“It’s a good way to recover some of the funds lost,” Leverton said. “Those expending our services should be offsetting some of our costs.”

The fee has been in effect for a month but not everyone was always in favor of its implementation.

“For over 10 years I fought to keep the towing fees down,” said sixth ward alderman Dave Baker. “But I want to give the police chief whatever he needs to make our community safer.”

Povlsen has high hopes for the effect the policy change will have on the DeKalb community.

“It will certainly be a deterrent for those with criminal minds, criminal behavior and criminal thinking,” Povlsen said.