Towing from HOA and drop fee

I had a visitor who stayed unexpectedly late (arrived prior to 6pm when passes are issued but stayed past 6pm) & I did not think to call for a pass after 6pm as it was an unexpected event. As she was walking to her car the tow truck approached. We waved at him & said don't tow she is leaving. He increased speed & proceeded to hook her car up while we were standing at the car then got out and would not release the car when asked. When he finally agreed (at security's request), he said she had to pay a drop fee b/c he already hooked car. She was also issued a violation from HOA security but not given 96 hrs to correct. Can they charge her & were they within legal rights to hook car while owner is next to car saying no & would be rectifying situation by leaving? It's private property. vc22658