Section 806 of the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act states in part that a debt collector may not harass, oppress, or abuse any person in connection with the collection of a debt. One example of such activity involves using threats (including implied threats), violence, or other criminal means to harm anyone's reputation, property, or physical person.
Allegheny Pennsylvania Letter Informing Debt Collector of Harassment or Abuse in Collection Activities Involving Threats to Use Violence or other Criminal Means to Harm the Physical Person, Reputation, and/or Property of the Debtor: Dear [Debt Collector's Name], I am writing to inform you of the ongoing harassment and abuse I have been experiencing from your collection agency regarding the outstanding debt attributed to my account. It has come to my attention that your representatives have been engaging in threatening behaviors, such as the use of violence or other criminal means to harm my physical person, reputation, and/or property. This letter serves as a formal complaint and a demand to cease all abusive collection activities immediately. I remind you that such threats and actions are strictly prohibited under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FD CPA) and relevant state laws in Pennsylvania, including Allegheny County regulations. It is imperative for you to understand the seriousness of the matter and take immediate corrective actions. The specific incidents of harassment and abuse I have experienced include: 1. Threats of physical harm: Your debt collectors have repeatedly made explicit or implicit threats of violence against me. This includes statements such as "We know where you live" or "You better pay up or else." 2. Property damage threats: Your representatives have made menacing remarks about causing damage to my property if I fail to pay the debt in question. These threats are completely unacceptable and illegal. 3. Reputation harm: Your collection agency has engaged in defamatory actions, such as sharing false information about my financial situation with third parties or making derogatory remarks that could damage my reputation. I demand an immediate stop to these abusive collection activities. Failure to comply with this request will leave me with no choice but to take legal action against your agency. I have meticulously recorded evidence of each incident, including audio recordings of phone calls, copies of correspondence, and witness testimonies. I expect a written response from your agency confirming that you have received this complaint and that necessary steps have been taken to address and rectify the situation. Additionally, I request that you provide me with copies of all documents related to my debt, including the original agreement and any subsequent modifications. Please treat this matter with the utmost urgency. I trust that you will see the gravity of the situation and take appropriate action to ensure that your collection practices are lawful and respectful. Yours sincerely, [Your Name] [Your Address] [City, State, Zip Code] [Phone Number] [Email Address]
