In which situation may an officer tow a vehicle using statutory authority?

A law enforcement officer has the statutory authority to tow a vehicle when it is unattended and poses a traffic hazard. This is critical for maintaining public safety and ensuring the smooth flow of traffic. When a vehicle is left in a position that could obstruct traffic, create a danger for other drivers, or interfere with emergency situations, the officer is justified in taking action to remove it.

In this scenario, the officer’s decision to tow the vehicle is based on the need to prevent accidents and ensure that roadways remain safe for all users. This aligns with the principle that law enforcement is tasked with upholding public safety and ensuring compliance with traffic laws.

The other situations presented do not provide adequate justification for towing under statutory authority. A licensed driver who refuses to leave their vehicle does not constitute an immediate threat to safety. Similarly, simply having proper plates does not give grounds for towing unless there is an associated issue such as parking violations or a related hazard. Finally, a vehicle being parked for a short duration of 15 minutes typically does not meet the criteria for it being considered a hazard, as this is generally acceptable in most contexts.