This New York City collection agency called my son a "deadbeat" and threatened to padlock his business over a $500 vendor bill that he does not owe. Against my advice, he offered $250 to settle but was told if he did not overnight the full $500 his business would be padlocked. Is there an agency in New York we can complain too?We are no longer interested in settleing this. The offer was to avoid any hassle. Now it is a matter of principle. We will explore suing the agency as well.Here is their name:ADAMS STEVENS & BRADLEY LTDAddress:350 5th Ave. Suite 1822New York, NY 10118View Location MapOriginal Business Start Date:1/1/1998Principal:Steve Rapaport, PresidentPhone Number:(212) 695-8050Additional Phone Numbers:(888) 669-8332Fax Number:(212) 695-6090Website:www.bad-debts.netType of Business:Collection Agencies
      Answer1:I do not beleive they have the power to do this. Could be a ploy to force you to pay. I would deal with this as soon as you can as it could impact future credit ratings.Make sure to have all you proof ready for the courts, including any messages and letters.
      Answer2:I was told by my lawyer that no collection agency can say anything like that legally but they still do it all the time to try to scare people into paying up and most people dont report it.Unless their was a contract signed saying that if you didnt pay they could padlock the company then they cannot do it legally.Id see an attorney right away there is no excuse for them to harass people like that. Plus if your son does not owe the $500 he can surely dispute that with the collection agency and theirs nothing they can do about it.And I think once its in dispute they cannot call you for the money anymore either until the dispute is resolved.
      Answer3:Yes its unprofessional...but that is the nature of the collection industry. If they dont harass people, they dont make money.Truthfully I am not sure why youre getting all worked up. If the bill is not owed, have your attorney send a letter and be done with it.