The complaint cited multiple incidents of improper debt collection practices used by Jacksonville-based Bass Prelitigation Services, bringing to light the behavior that prompted the attorney general’s investigation, according to a news release.

“Debt collection agencies should never resort to threats or intimidation as the means by which funds are eventually collected,” said Attorney General Bill McCollum.
The investigation into Bass’ practices began when the attorney general’s Economic Crimes Division received numerous complaints from the Better Business Bureau. Consumers claimed Bass used aggressive and illegal tactics to collect on its accounts, including impersonating attorneys, threatening arrests and collecting illegal fees greater than the amount originally owed. According to the prosecutor, it is alleged that employees went so far as to pose as state investigators.

Company owners Frank and Evelyn Jackson and a related company, Jackson Phillips & Associates, are also named in the suit. The complaint cites numerous violations of Florida’s Deceptive and Unfair Trade Practices Act as well as concomitant violations of the Florida Consumer Collections Practices Act and the Federal Fair Debt Collections Practices Act.

McCollum asked the court to force the company to cease operations and be permanently prevented from operating in the state of Florida. His complaint also seeks consumer restitution for victims who paid more to the company than they owed and more than $1.2 million in penalties.

Source : http://www.ccrmag.net/article.html?id=200707023H0PFSL5
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