Got my first phone call on 12-31-03 from Stacy Larsen (received a collection letter on 1-3-04) in an attempt to collect on a debt that was settled and discharged 15 years ago! First thing I did was try to research them on the internet which brought me to this site. I couldn't believe all the posts on this company.
They told me they purchased this debt from Midland Acquisitions Corp which I also tried to research out and find contact information on, and of course came up empty-handed. When I pressed them for contact information for Midland I got referred to Lilly Naddis. She referred me to Scott Adams in the complience dept. I was told they don't keep records from these companies and therefore had no contact information. They said Midland probably wouldn't talk to a consumer and once they sell the debt they sell off all rights with it and keep no records. I said that if they didn't want to talk with me then maybe they would give the info to my lawyer.
Amazingly enough, Scott "found someone" downstairs who happened to know someone at Midland and he was able to call them and request original documents, however, this company couldn't provide the original documents (oh big surprise) so they would have to close my account and cease all collection. However, they never gave me any contact information.
This wasn't as easy as it sounds. Since you catch more flies with honey, I played the game for a while, did tons of research, contacted 2 lawyers and obtained proof that they were attempting to collect on a dead account. I also have in my posession the collection letter, settlement propsal, camco affidavit (bogus). Also, in my state it's legal to tape phone conversations so I have tapes that prove they contradict themselves. I have them admitting they pulled my credit report on this tape as well. I turned the tables on them to get the tapes... instead of waiting for them to call and harass me I must have place MANY phone calls to them pressuring them to obtain documents to prove the debt valid while recording all information possible! I never had to send a C&D letter, show them my proof, or let them know they were being recorded. I calmly & cordially backed them up against a legal wall and got them to cease collection!
Since I was able to resolve things with them my lawyer he recommended I take this to the Atty General. The Atty General told me that since it was resolved there is nothing they can do but referred me to the FTC where I filed a complaint. I also called the Rockford Atty General who could offer no help since it was resolved.
I plan to call my local news station as well as contact the major networks. I also plan to call my local police. I'm outraged and should have never been contacted by this company at all!!! I can't believe they are in business!!!
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