Bank sues man for unpaid credit card balance

American Express Bank is suing an O'Fallon man, alleging the man has failed to make more than $60,000 worth of credit card payments.

The bank filed a lawsuit Aug. 12 in St. Clair County Circuit Court against James Harris.

It says Harris failed to make monthly payments on his American Express credit card account.

In turn, it has suspended charge privileges on the account, but says Harris still owes it $63,565.82.

"Despite due demand, Defendant has failed and refused to pay Plaintiff any portion of the amount due and owing," the suit states. "Defendant benefited from all of the charges made to the Account, has acknowledged receipt of those benefits, and has failed to pay for the same."

In addition to the money it says it is owed, American Express Bank is seeking attorney's fees of $350, court costs, pre-judgment interest and other relief the court deems just.

Michael L. Starzec of Blitt and Gaines in Wheeling will be representing him.

St. Clair County Circuit Court case number: 09-L-442.