The state jailed Thomas Jensen for three days for trying to pay a fifty-cent toll with two tokens. Jensen believes the tokens represent a contract with the state that was illegally violated in January when the state began exclusively using E-Z Pass.
The Consumerist reports that a toll worker refused to accept the tokens and directed Jensen to a state trooper.
The trooper issued a citation for theft of services. A judge gave Jensen three choices: pay a $150 fine, perform community service, or spend three days in jail. Jensen chose jail.
The Patriot Ledger says New Hampshire dropped the token system two years ago when it installed the Fast Pass system that is now common in most Northeast states. The state gave drivers until Dec. 31, 2005, to use their 25-cent tokens.
‘‘I gave the state of New Hampshire money for the tokens, and I expect to be able to use them,’’ Jensen said.
He paid for the tokens and is angry that the state has turned his pre-paid tokens into worthless souvenirs.
To make matters worse, New Hampshire lost his request for trial and, assuming he ignored the citation, they went ahead and issued a bench warrant for his arrest. When he was involved in a minor car accident this summer, he was arrested.
The man did not lie down and take it when government tried to make what he paid good money for, worthless. Most people would have just sat back and remained a zombie as they were walked all over. So I admire the guy. It's the principal.
