8 debt collection firms fined

Regulators took action against eight debt collection firms, including six that hired felons. The state Commerce Department said the companies engaged in other misconduct.

Debt collectorLocationHired felons?Fine

Allied Interstate LLCPlymouth $300,000

Bureau of Collection Recovery LLCEden Prairie $150,000

AllianceOne Receivables Management Inc.Eagan $40,000

Van Ru Credit Corp.Park Ridge, Ill. $65,000

IC System Inc.St. Paul $65,000

Nationwide Recovery SystemsCarrollton, Texas $250,000*

Commercial Recovery Corp.Blaine $40,000

* Fine stayed. Potential fines of up to $10,000 per offense; company has right to challenge allegations.