Towing Issues: Got towed while I was standing there????, tow truck driver, tow driver

Question
I was parked illegally (In Minneapolis Minnesota) for a total of 30 seconds.  The sign said 'reserved' I'm guessing for an apartment complex near by.  I was standing next to my car when the tow truck backed in and blocked me in.  I said I could just move the car, as the driver got out of his truck, before he even touched my car, and he said no.  I asked if I could get some things out of my car and he said no.  He said I could pay him $100 to not have it towed.  I ran down the road, hit the cash machine (a total of 3 minutes), but he was already gone by the time I got back.  I already paid to have the car released from impound ($250!), but I heard that this driver acted unlawful, improper, or something since I was standing there.  I also heard if I would have just got in the car the tow driver legally couldn't tow the car while I was sitting in it.  I know you don't answer 'law' questions but what are your thoughts here?  Do you think I could get any of my money back?

Answer
Here in VA a tow truck driver can't ask for services rendered if NOTHING has been done. If the driver didn't hook your car then a drop fee is not in order. A quick trip to http://www.ftc.gov/ can clear up some questions regarding consumer protection. Also, if it's your car with your personal possessions you can take what you need, especially if it wasn't hooked yet! You should have called the police, they would have cleared up the issue. I understand your point of view as extortion and the procedure for the tow is questionable.