Airbrush-ed
Haven't read all the threads so don't know what's been stated, but it would be nice to have this guy set up some kind of payment plan to get you paid back with a reasonable amount of interest, late fees, etc. added on to the bill. If he's a man, he'll make it happen some how, some way, even if it means selling his bike to do it. With this economy it's tough out there for a lot of people. This guy's situation we're not privy to, but it seems like he may have gotten into financial trouble subsequent to having you start the job. Regardless, the dude needs to buck up and compensate you some way. Regarding the whole "thief" thing, he's only a thief if he intentionally planned on doing this to you, in the same way that a homeowner who defaults on his mortgage is not a thief if he doesn't pay his mortgage. It's a damn shame a lawyer needs to be involved as this will only delay the whole process and cost everyone MORE money. Completely understand your frustration as I've had the same thing happen to me with clients I do work for. I just called them on a daily basis and let them know they owed me - soon they got sick of hearing from me and paid me back, some in a lump sum, some with a payment plan.
Best of luck, sir, your work is impressive indeed. Keep up the good fight.
Maximus