The Pennsylvania Turnpike is intensifying its efforts to collect unpaid tolls as it is filing criminal charges against the worst offenders, writes Ed Blazina for the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.

The turnpike is currently owed more than $17 million in unpaid dues. In an effort to collect at least a part of this, the turnpike has started filing criminal charges against those with the highest unpaid bills for toll evasion.

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So far, 395 cases have been pursued, and 35 of them have resulted in criminal charges since the offenders refused to enter into payment agreements.

“We try very hard to not have to go to criminal charges,” said Ray Morrow, the turnpike’s chief compliance officer. “It’s much better if you work with us.”

So far, the turnpike has closed 187 cases for $305,759. Motorists have either paid out the entire owed amount or have had a payment plan set up.

In addition to criminal charges, the agency is also using the suspension of vehicle registration for motorists who have accumulated more than $500 in outstanding turnpike tolls. So far, it has asked the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation to revoke 808 registrations.

Read more about the Pennsylvania Turnpike’s efforts to collect unpaid tolls in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette here.

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