Debt collector denies man's claims that it broke the law during repossession

The defendant in a Madison County case over allegations that a debt collector broke the law when it repossessed a vehicle filed an answer to the complaint on Nov. 8.

Luther Calvert of Madison County sued Santander Consumer USA in August, claiming that, among other things, Santander pounded on doors in his apartment building, subsequently disturbing the peace and publicizing his financial difficulties.

Santander denied Calvert's allegations, claiming that a third party - American Recovery Service, Inc. - was responsible for any damages Calvert may have incurred. Santander indicated it filed a third party complaint against the company.

Calvert is seeking a judgment of more than $70,000 and punitive damages of more than $50,000, plus attorney's fees and other relief the court deems just.

Robert E. Ryan of Alton represents Calvert.

David J. Frankel and Kathleen M. Haggerty of Sorman & Frankel in Chicago represent Santander.

Madison County Circuit Case Number: 11- L-797.