In a striking legal battle, an elderly couple has taken on a major financial institution over allegations of illegal collection practices and defamation. The complaint was filed by Edna Levi and Jerry Levi in the Superior Court of California for the County of San Francisco on March 27, 2025, targeting Barclays Bank Delaware.
The Levies' lawsuit stems from what they describe as Barclays Bank Delaware's unlawful actions regarding a fraudulent loan tied to a timeshare swindle. The plaintiffs claim that despite assurances from Barclays that the debt would disappear if ignored, it continued to mar their credit reports. This revelation prompted them to take legal action against the bank, alleging negligence, defamation, and violations of both state business codes and elder abuse statutes.
According to the court documents, Edna and Jerry Levi are residents of San Francisco County, with Jerry being a retired Deputy Court Clerk and Edna having provided care for the disabled before retiring. They assert that Barclays Bank Delaware operates as a collection and credit reporting agency within California. The Levies allege that the bank's actions have caused significant harm to their reputations and emotional well-being. They are seeking damages totaling $1 million each for general negligence, claiming that Barclays breached its duty of care owed to them.
The lawsuit also accuses Barclays of violating California’s Business and Professions Code Section 17200 by engaging in unfair business practices. The Levies seek a permanent injunction against these practices along with attorney fees and costs. Furthermore, they claim defamation due to false publications by Barclays that have exposed them to ridicule and contempt. They argue this has resulted in loss of reputation and emotional distress, warranting additional punitive damages.
Additionally, Jerry Levi is pursuing claims under California’s Rosenthal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act for what he describes as malicious collection tactics aimed at exploiting his status as an elderly individual. He alleges financial elder abuse under W.I.C. §15610 et seq., citing deceitful practices intended to harm him financially. As part of their relief sought from the court, the Levies demand declaratory relief alongside an accounting from Barclays regarding its handling of their alleged debt.
Represented by attorney Donald Charles Schwartz from Aptos, CA, the Levies are determined to hold Barclays accountable for what they perceive as grave injustices inflicted upon them through negligent conduct and fraudulent schemes. Their case is identified under Case No: CGC-25-623708 in front of the Superior Court judges in San Francisco County.