ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) — The chief judge of the District Court of Maryland has dismissed more than 3,000 debt collections cases against Maryland residents.

Chief Judge Ben C. Clyburn’s action on Wednesday comes after a settlement of a class-action suit against Worldwide Asset Purchasing. The suit claimed that Worldwide Asset Purchasing and its affiliates were not properly registered or licensed, misstated amounts owed and filed collection lawsuits after the statute of limitations had expired.

Defendants in the dismissed cases will receive written notification from the court.

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