The New York State DMV is investigating widespread license plate fraud in Jamestown and Chautauqua County, where surrendered plate numbers are being illegally used on other vehicles. This has resulted in innocent residents receiving thousands of dollars in bogus tolls and tickets, primarily from the New York City area. One Jamestown couple was erroneously billed for nearly $10,000. Although the DMV’s official policy is to never reuse the numbers from destroyed plates, the issue persists. The DMV’s investigative division is now working with police to target offenders, who are likely using the fraudulent plates to evade tolls or for other criminal purposes. The State Inspector General’s office is also monitoring the situation, which has already led to the reversal of a $500 judgment and the dismissal of 13 summonses for the affected couple after media attention.