Correctioal Billing Services Ripoff I was billed for 16 cents. I was told a minimum payment by credit card would be $50 plus an $8 handling fee Mechanicsburg Pennsylvania

I am a retired Episcopal priest and for 25 years was able to accept collect calls from a prisoner in the WI correctional system. Recently I was told that I could only receive calls if I made a deposit to the Correctional Billing Services Co. I sent them a check (I believe) for $25. I apparently had used that up, and today received a bill for 16 cents. I called the toll free # and after a 15 minute wait talked to someone who demanded my telephone # name, and last four digits of my soc sec #. I told her I could give her my invoice # and customer #, but she refused them and at her third request I finally gave her the soc sec info. She then said the only way I could send money by credit card was by a minimum payment of $50 with an $8 surcharge.

I confess that I lost it at that point, told her "To go to Hell" and hung up. The whole unproductive process took at least a half hour, and the company's policy is outrageous. They are taking advantage of those who are the most vulnerable and completely at their mercy. They have a racket that is no doubt perfectly legal but totally immoral. I only wish that someone in a powerful position might expose them for what they are.

R michael
Denver, Colorado
U.S.A.