Consumer complaint received 2026-04-15 00:00:00
Product: Debt collection — Other debt
Issue: Communication tactics — Used obscene, profane, or other abusive language
Company: Adler Wallach & Associates, Inc.
State: CA

Complaint narrative:
Subject : Formal Complaint, Allegation of Discriminatory and Abusive Conduct, and Demand for Investigation Adler Wallach & Associates , Inc . To Whom It May Concern, I am submitting this formal complaint to report and document conduct by a representative of Adler Wallach & Associates , Inc. that I believe constitutes harassment, abusive communication, and discriminatory treatment in violation of federal consumer protection laws, including the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act. From the outset of the call, I clearly identified myself as XXXX and respectfully communicated how I prefer to be addressed. I also clarified that if a legal name was required for verification purposes, it could be handled appropriately. Despite this, the representative deliberately disregarded my stated preference and continued to address me in a manner I had explicitly communicated was offensive and culturally disrespectful to me as a XXXX XXXX. When I attempted to explain the significance of this and why it was important to me, the representative ignored my statements entirely. My concerns were dismissed without acknowledgment, and the behavior continued. This was not a misunderstanding ; it was a willful refusal to respect my identity and expressed boundaries. During the interaction, I repeatedly requested to speak with a supervisor or another representative due to the escalating hostility. These requests were denied multiple times. I was effectively prevented from escalating the matter and forced to remain on the call with an individual who was increasingly combative, dismissive, and unprofessional. The representatives tone and conduct were verbally abusive and demeaning. I was spoken to in a belittling manner, particularly when discussing my financial situation. When I attempted to negotiate a resolution in good faith based on my financial capacity, I was told I was XXXX, and the representative responded in a condescending and adversarial manner. Furthermore, the representative increased the settlement amount beyond what had already been offered by another associate, which appeared punitive and retaliatory rather than consistent or good faith negotiation. This conduct is especially concerning in light of the circumstances under which I made this call. My family has experienced significant hardship, including the recent deaths of my younger sister ( my mothers daughter ) and my younger brother within the past year. These losses have had a profound impact on my family and my mental health. Despite these challenges, I made a sincere effort to resolve this account responsibly. Instead of being met with professionalism or basic respect, I was subjected to dismissive, culturally insensitive, and verbally abusive treatment. The representative demonstrated a complete disregard for my stated identity, my expressed concerns, and my circumstances. The behavior described above raises serious concerns under the FDCPA, including but not limited to : - Prohibition of harassment or abuse ( 15 U.S.C. 1692d ) - Prohibition of unfair or unconscionable means of collection ( 15 U.S.C. 1692f ) - Requirement to conduct communications in a manner that does not oppress, abuse, or demean consumers Additionally, the refusal to allow escalation to a supervisor and the dismissive handling of concerns regarding identity and cultural respect further reflect a breakdown in basic compliance and professional standards. Accordingly, I am formally requesting : 1. A comprehensive internal investigation into this representatives conduct 2. Copies of all recorded calls associated with my interactions 3. Identification of the representative involved and review of their communication practices 4. A written explanation as to why my repeated requests to speak with a supervisor were denied 5. Confirmation of corrective action taken, if warranted 6. Assurance that future communications will be handled in compliance with federal law and with basic respect and professionalism 7. A fair and reasonable opportunity to resolve this account without further harassment or discriminatory treatment

Company response to consumer: Closed with explanation