Coletta, I am so sorry that happened to you. I can confirm that it is always within the property manager's discretion to have a car brought back to the property with no charges or a reduced charge to a resident whose car is towed no matter the reason. It is truly scary for an onsite professional to deal with upset and aggressive Residents and I do not tolerate that behavior in our Office. Management sets the rules for the towing company - the towing company works for the property. The only cars that are towed on my property are ones that are illegally parked (handicap without authorization plates/tags; parked along NO PARKING area, curbs, etc.) Therefore, all cars towed are for strictly illegal parking and I explain to Residents that the Fire Marshall may charge a hefty fine to a property if an emergency vehicle cannot maneuver when responding to a call out. I'm talking fines up to $10,000.00.
As for handling the aggressive resident, you should know that you may state to the person you are now becoming afraid and concerned and will be calling the police if they do not calm down and leave immediately. Then call the police. Sometimes, letting a Resident vent is fine, as long as that is all he/she is doing - venting. You should discuss this with your PM and decide the best course for you when confronted like this for the future.
Just so you know, you were not at fault. It is not your responsibility to ensure Residents read paperwork or affix their parking stickers. You are not responsible for anyone's behavior other than your own.