Urbana police warn against scam targeting accessible parking signs

URBANA — Police are warning business owners against a new scam targeting the accessible parking signs in their lots.

Police have gotten complaints that the offenders are selling stickers to change the fines on the handicap parking signs from $250 to $350.

The problem is that the city hasn’t changed its fine for violating the accessible parking signs. It’s still $250.

“It’s the first time I’ve heard of it, but they’re always looking for ways,” said Urbana police Lt. Bob Fitzgerald.

The state allows the city to charge violators as much as $350 for illegally parking in an accessible spot, but the fine in Urbana is and has been $250.

Police ask that anyone offered a $350 sticker call police. Fitzgerald suggests that, anytime a resident or business owner is approached by a person saying they are selling an item on behalf of the city or the state, call police to confirm.