NYPD Debuts ‘Windshield Boots’ For Parking Scofflaws
April 9, 2024
The “Barnacle Device” is a 17-pound tool that sticks to the windshield like a commercial-grade suction
New York City’s Police Department has revealed a new weapon they are calling “windshield boots,” also known as the “Barnacle Device,” to force scofflaws to settle the debt on their parking tickets that have gone into judgment.
Tonight was the NYPD’s 1st deployment of a windshield boot aka the “Barnacle Device.” It’s used to immobilize vehicles violating parking regulations.
This allows us to hold those accountable, reduce parking congestion & address cars that are a nuisance & hazard to the community. pic.twitter.com/XMkBltOvm9— Chief of Transportation (@NYPDTransport) April 5, 2024
The NYPD debuted the new enforcement instruments on April 4. The windshield boots are a 17-pound device that sticks to the windshield like a commercial-grade suction that can not be removed until the owner/scofflaw pays the fine associated with the vehicle. It attaches to the windshield glass with 1,000 pounds of force.
Unlike previous devices placed on car tires, this one is purposefully placed on the driver’s side of the windshield to prevent the driver from seeing, thus preventing them from attempting to drive with the device.
“The use of the Barnacle device is part of a pilot program,” an NYPD spokeswoman said. “The NYPD has leased four devices, and we will use them to target illegally parked trucks and vehicles with excess fines.”
These devices are being used in several cities, including Greeley, Colorado, and Charleston, South Carolina. Some parking companies and universities also utilized the “windshield boots,” according to the company that makes the devices, Barnacle Parking. The yellow panels are made of polycarbonate and can only be removed after a code is given to them once a scofflaw pays the fine.
If anyone attempts to drive the car with the device attached, they will be met with a “blaring alarm.” The device is also GPS-enabled. Drivers will have to pay a $200 deposit for the device, which will be refunded after they return the device to a drop box.
