Toyota Motor Credit sues over defaulted car loan

Toyota Motor Credit is suing Orange resident Lee Hanks, seeking to recover nearly $10,000 on a defaulted car loan.

The suit was filed Dec. 2 in Jefferson County District Court.

Court papers show that the parties entered into a retail installment contract on March 30, 2008 for a 2003 Ford Mustang. The contract required 61 payments of $302.54 but as of Nov. 23, Hanks had failed to make his last four payments.

"Because of the defendant's breaches, Toyota accelerated the debt," the suit states. "Despite defendant's breaches ... he wrongfully retains possession of the vehicle."

Toyota claims $9,487.18 is still owed on the balance.

The company is seeking repossession of the vehicle and recovery of actual damages.

Houston attorney Joel Mohrman of McGlinchey Stafford represents Toyota.

Judge Milton Shuffield, 136th District Court, has been assigned to the case.

Case No. D188-902