I’d side with AWDrifter if I were her: Don’t fucking touch it. Despite the legal hairball, you’re not actually involved as of now. Don’t get involved. Shit, if it comes to legal action you have your written proof right here in this thread that he did it. Plus another thread showing that he makes a habit of it.
Yeah, definitely don’t touch it. The money he owes you is a separate issue. You do not want to get involved with the DEC.