This week on The Dirty Verdict, Peter Taaffe and Kyle Herbert (filling in while Bill Ogden mourns the loss of his grandfather—our condolences, Bill) dive into the world of court-appointed receiverships—where judgments get enforced, zebras get seized, and helicopters in backyards are fair game.
Peter and Kyle are joined by two of the most notorious (and effective) receivers in Texas: Robert Berleth and Derek Loetzerich. These legal bounty hunters share jaw-dropping stories of chasing down debtors, collecting everything from luxury cars to exotic animals, and navigating the wild west of fraudulent transfers and business divorces.
Whether you’ve got a judgment to enforce or just want to hear how someone found nearly $1 million in cash in a closet—this one’s for you.
🔍 Show Notes:
00:00–01:12 – Opening tributes to Bill Ogden’s grandfather and legendary lawyer Darryl Barger
01:12–02:46 – What is a court-appointed receiver? Legal context and real-world impact
02:46–06:13 – Meet Robert and Derek: how they got into receivership work
06:13–10:34 – From paramedic to collections attorney and the case of the zebras 🦓
10:34–14:11 – How they get paid: contingency fees, judgment stacking, and more
14:11–18:20 – When should lawyers call a receiver? (Spoiler: before it’s too late)
18:20–22:28 – Chapter 64 receiverships explained (aka legal hitmen with court orders)
22:28–27:05 – Powers of a receiver and why they’re way better than garnishment
27:05–30:00 – Yes, they’ve been shot at. Here’s what not to do when you owe money
30:00–34:35 – Famous debtors: Vince Young, Moses Malone Jr., and Adrian Peterson
34:35–38:09 – Liquidating jewelry, boats, and classic cars (some worth far less than expected)
38:09–42:00 – Offshore asset chases and international enforcement
42:00–46:00 – Cold hard cash: $983,000 in a duffel bag + COVID fraud
46:00–50:00 – Why receivers don’t publish addresses and how they protect themselves
50:00–55:00 – The psychology of judgment enforcement: fear, fraud, and fast settlements
55:00–57:12 – Acting as unofficial mediators to help resolve impossible cases
57:12–End – Final thoughts, shoutouts to Suriname, and why you don’t want these guys showing up at your door
💼 Takeaway: If you’re a lawyer with a tough judgment to collect, skip the paperwork and call a receiver. These guys get it done.
🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you get your podcasts. And if you’re in Suriname… we’re sorry.