Simpson Toll-Free Line Unplugged

The toll-free number for ordering O.J. Simpson’s videotape was changed to a toll number Saturday, one day after it went on sale amid a campaign by some critics to jam the lines and prevent sales.

Producer Tony Hoffman refused to say why the phone number was changed to a listing in northwestern Los Angeles County. Callers to the toll-free number are now referred to the new number.

Hoffman said the change had nothing to do with the sales-thwarting efforts of those opposed to the $29.95 videotape of Simpson telling his side of the story to a hired journalist.

Critics have suggested tying up the 800-number by asking scores of questions instead of actually purchasing the video.