Federal officials said they are trying to send a message to other debt collectors to stop harassing people over debts they don't owe.

By CHRIS SERRES, Star Tribune
Last update: October 22, 2010 - 12:03 AM

Allied Interstate Inc., a large Minnesota debt collection agency with a history of consumer complaints and state fines, has agreed to pay $1.75 million to settle federal allegations that it broke the law by trying to collect debts people didn't owe.