Collection agency wants to seize property to satisfy judgment

A Houston collection agency is hoping the court will allow it to seize property from a couple who have failed to satisfy a court judgment against them.

Old West Capital Co. filed a lawsuit July 2 in Jefferson County District Court against Shawn Patrick and Hang T. Stoppa.

In its complaint, Old West claims it was awarded a default judgment against Shawn Stoppa in the amount of $16,539.54, plus post-judgment interest at 18 percent on Dec. 18, 2007.

"The Stoppa Judgment has a current payoff of $31,409.17 as of June 30, 2012, using simple interest with interest accruing at a rate of 18 percent per annum or $8.53 per day thereafter," the suit states.

Old West claims it has since discovered that Shawn Stoppa and his wife, Hang T. Stoppa, acquired property on 10th Avenue in Port Arthur on Feb. 22, 2002, and another piece of property in Fairview Valley Court in Houston on Dec. 8, 2008. The properties would satisfy the debts that Shawn Stoppa owes to Old West, the complaint says.

In its complaint, Old West is asking for a declaratory judgment that would order the sale and foreclosure on the Stoppas' properties. Proceeds from the sale could be applied to the outstanding judgment. Old West is also seeking attorneys' fees, costs and other relief the court deems just.

Aubyn K. Shettle Jr. and Alisa S. Richman of Dallas will be representing it.

Judge Gary Sanderson, 60th District Court, has been assigned to the case.

Case No. B192-641