Past-due Blues Put Debt Collectors in the Black

J.C. Christensen & Associates is one of the largest and most successful firms on the flip side of consumers’ long spending binge — debt collection.

Last week, the low-profile Sauk Rapids collection agency came under the glare of Minnesota Attorney General Mike Hatch, who issued a report sharply critical of the debt-collection practices of Christensen and its client, Fairview Health Services.

“Corporations are throwing their debt to the Rottweilers,” Hatch said, referring to the agencies hired to collect on overdue accounts. He called on legislators to reform Minnesota’s laws on debt collection, which he said tip the scales against consumers in financial distress, many of whom are poor, sick or elderly.

Meanwhile, the army of debt collectors poised to come after late payers is growing. Collection agencies nationwide have tripled their income in the past 10 years and boosted staff levels by 50 percent in the past five years, according to industry figures.

Hatch’s lawsuits and reports contain dozens of sworn affidavits from consumers who say they were treated contemptuously or even illegally by debt collectors.

James Christensen declined to make himself available for an interview, but spokeswoman Sue Mackert defended the firm’s practices.

Debt accounts are not turned over for legal action until “significant verbal and written contact” has been made with the debtors, she said. New employees receive two weeks of training and are not hired until they pass a test on federal debt regulations, she said.

“The mission statement is to be a problem solver — to help people with their debt,” Mackert said. “This is a very, very respected and solid organization.”

For this complete story, please visit Past-due Blues Put Debt Collectors in the Black.