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"Real question though is will my family be safe."
No one can answer this for you as we dont know her, or what she is capable of.
You already said you were willing to let it go, so I suggest you just do.
Going to an agency will only get you a portion of the $1000, and how much more stress and pain will you go through to get it? more than it's worth I bet.
Just take the lesson and walk away.

Perhaps you're right.

Also, the fact that you were charging an effective interest rate of 240% per annum might not hold up too well in court... just saying. That wont be seen as doing her any favours...