Is Roquemore & Roquemore, Inc. Engaging in Unlawful Debt Collection Practices?
Debt collection agencies often walk a fine line between lawful recovery efforts and outright Roquemore & Roquemore Inc. Debt Collection Harassment. Many consumers have raised concerns regarding Roquemore & Roquemore, Inc., a Texas-based debt collection agency, alleging aggressive and possibly unlawful practices. Are these claims valid? This article explores the allegations and legal implications surrounding the company’s actions.
What is Roquemore & Roquemore, Inc.?
Roquemore & Roquemore, Inc. is a debt collection agency specializing in asset recovery, skip tracing, and repossession services. Over the years, the company has worked with financial institutions, lenders, and creditors to locate and recover outstanding debts. However, while the company markets itself as a legitimate and professional operation, a growing number of consumer complaints suggest otherwise.
Reports indicate that some individuals contacted by Roquemore & Roquemore, Inc. have experienced persistent phone calls, threats, and misleading statements—practices that could potentially violate federal consumer protection laws.
Common Complaints Against Roquemore & Roquemore, Inc.
Many individuals have reported interactions with Roquemore & Roquemore, Inc. that they believe cross the line into harassment. The most common complaints include:
Excessive and Harassing Phone Calls
Numerous consumers have stated that they receive repeated phone calls from the agency, sometimes multiple times a day. Some have even reported receiving calls at inappropriate hours, such as early in the morning or late at night. Under federal law, debt collectors are restricted from contacting individuals outside of reasonable hours without permission.
Threats of Legal Action or Arrest
A particularly alarming allegation is that representatives from Roquemore & Roquemore, Inc. have threatened legal action, wage garnishment, or even arrest. These types of threats are illegal unless a lawsuit has already been filed. Consumers have the right to receive accurate and truthful information about their debt without being subjected to intimidation tactics.
Contacting Third Parties
Some individuals have reported that debt collectors from Roquemore & Roquemore, Inc. have reached out to their family members, employers, or neighbors to discuss their debt. This practice is a direct violation of consumer privacy laws, which prohibit debt collectors from discussing a debtor’s financial obligations with unauthorized third parties.
Misrepresentation and False Statements
In several instances, consumers have claimed that representatives misrepresented themselves as attorneys, government officials, or law enforcement officers in an attempt to coerce payment. Such deceptive tactics are explicitly illegal under federal regulations governing debt collection.
What the Law Says About Debt Collection Harassment
Debt collectors must adhere to strict laws designed to prevent abusive and deceptive practices. The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) outlines what debt collectors can and cannot do when pursuing unpaid debts.
Prohibited Practices Under the FDCPA:
Calling consumers at unreasonable hours or repeatedly to harass them.
Making threats of legal action or arrest without actual intent or legal authority.
Misrepresenting themselves as attorneys, law enforcement officers, or government officials.
Discussing a debtor’s financial obligations with third parties.
Using abusive or profane language during collection attempts.
Violations of these regulations can result in penalties, fines, and legal action against the debt collection agency. Consumers who experience such behavior may have grounds to file complaints and seek legal remedies.
How Consumers Can Protect Themselves
If you believe you are being harassed by Roquemore & Roquemore, Inc., you have legal rights and options to protect yourself. Here are some steps you can take:
Request Written Communication
Debt collectors are required to provide written verification of a debt upon request. If you receive a phone call from Roquemore & Roquemore, Inc., ask for a written notice detailing the debt amount, the original creditor, and your rights under the law.
Document All Interactions
Keep a record of all phone calls, letters, and messages from the company. Note the date, time, and nature of each interaction. If you experience harassment, this documentation can serve as evidence should you decide to file a complaint or take legal action.
Send a Cease-and-Desist Letter
Under the FDCPA, you have the right to request that a debt collector stop contacting you. Sending a written cease-and-desist letter can legally require them to halt communication. However, this does not eliminate the debt itself, and creditors may still pursue legal action if the debt remains unpaid.
File a Complaint
If you believe that Roquemore & Roquemore, Inc. has violated your rights, you can file a complaint with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), or your state’s attorney general’s office.
Seek Legal Assistance
In cases of persistent harassment or unlawful conduct, consulting a consumer rights attorney may be the best course of action. Many attorneys offer free consultations and can help determine whether legal action is necessary.
Final Thoughts
The allegations against Roquemore & Roquemore, Inc. raise serious concerns about the ethical boundaries of debt collection. While creditors have the right to recover legitimate debts, they must do so within the limits of the law. If you believe you have been subjected to harassment, it is crucial to know your rights and take appropriate action to protect yourself.
If harassment persists, legal options are available to hold debt collectors accountable for violating consumer protection laws. No one should have to endure aggressive and unlawful debt collection tactics.