Harry Gross: His car was impounded by the city, when he got it back his things were missing

Dear Harry: Somehow, my car was impounded by the city of Philadelphia for some unknown reason. It was returned to me the next day. Everything was the same as before except that some things were missing from inside the car. I kept a roll of quarters for parking meters. There was a very unusual flashlight that came to me from my father. I also had a lot of miscellaneous things in the glove compartment and the side pockets on the doors. There had to be at least $100 worth of stuff missing. The city people that I spoke with were dismissive and rude beyond belief. What can I do now that no one will help me?

What Harry says: This is unfortunately not an unusual occurrence. Over the years, I have heard similar stories regarding towed cars and sometimes valet-parked cars. There are several things you can do. Contact your city councilman and the Mayor's Office for complaints. Too often, people who are victims don't realize that they have a loss until long after the incident. Others don't feel that the theft is large enough to lodge a complaint. But the only way to stop it is to raise your voice as you are doing. Also, if you can, do not leave valuables of any kind in the car. Even the trunk is not fully secure. *

Write Harry Gross c/o the Daily News, 400 N. Broad St., Philadelphia, PA 19130.