New York State Police impounded 140 vehicles and issued over 700 tickets this summer in a major crackdown on toll evasion and fake license plates, Governor Kathy Hochul announced.
The operations targeted drivers on the New York State Thruway who owed nearly $125,000 in unpaid tolls and used fraudulent or “ghost” plates to avoid detection. Officials have already recovered more than half that amount.
Ghost plates and unpaid tolls
The summer-long enforcement included three details—two at the Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge and one in Buffalo. Troopers seized vehicles, issued 711 tickets, and focused on violators with suspended registrations and altered or obscured plates.
“These are not victimless crimes,” Governor Hochul said. “Just 20 vehicle owners accounted for nearly 60 percent of unpaid tolls. That’s money being taken out of your pockets.”
Officials said ghost plates—fake, stolen, or tampered license plates—are increasingly used to dodge tolls and traffic cameras. Motorists also use fake temporary tags or cover plates to avoid being identified.
“We’re committed to collecting every dollar owed,” said Frank G. Hoare, Executive Director of the Thruway Authority. “If you try to avoid paying tolls, we’re going to find you.”
Breakdown of operations
- June 24: 53 vehicles impounded at the Cuomo Bridge, 231 tickets issued
- July 21: 61 vehicles impounded at the Cuomo Bridge, 221 tickets issued
- August 21: 26 vehicles impounded in Buffalo, 259 tickets issued
Many tickets were for license plate violations, but troopers also cited drivers for speeding, expired licenses, distracted driving, and other safety-related offenses.
“These enforcements play a pivotal role in traffic safety,” said State Police Superintendent Steven G. James. “There will be consequences for those refusing to pay their fair share.”
How to avoid penalties
Drivers can avoid toll violations by using E-ZPass or paying toll bills on time through Tolls By Mail. Unpaid tolls lead to escalating fees and possible registration suspension.
Motorists who don’t have E-ZPass can sign up at e-zpassny.com to receive discounted tolls and manage payments. The Thruway Authority also offers support through its Office of the Toll Payer Advocate.
Protecting roads and keeping tolls low
The Thruway system is funded almost entirely by tolls—not taxpayer dollars—and supports $2.7 billion in infrastructure upgrades through 2029.
“This enforcement helps keep our roads safer, tolls lower, and funding for improvements on track,” said Assemblymember William Magnarelli. “Law-abiding drivers shouldn’t have to cover the cost of those trying to cheat the system.”
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