Anyone who breaks gates to get out of parking in this SC city will now face criminal charges

Motorists who lift or break gates to get out of parking lots owned by the city of Greenville will now face criminal changes.

City officials said this has happened more than 100 times this year, on average two to three a week.

The city has 18 garages and lots and offers free parking for the first hour except during special events and when weekend nighttime rates are in effect. The cost is $2 for a second hour, and then $1 per hour thereafter, with a daily maximum of $7.

“Past solutions like signage, clearer markings and public reminders haven’t worked,” city officials said in a news release.

Garages have license plate readers and surveillance cameras, information the city has used to bill a driver’s insurance company for damages. Last year, the city collected just under $108,000 from insurance companies.

The kiosks have buttons to call for assistance if someone has a problem. Someone will answer and help remedy the situation.

.“This isn’t about punishment,” said Parking Services Administrator Bill Foster. “We really want to just stop the behavior.”

Criminal charges can carry a fine of $150 plus restitution for repair costs. Damage exceeding $2,000 can be charged as a felony, the city said.