How can I get my former employer to cease and desist?

Contact an attorney who will need your complete information and documents to review and determine how you may be able to address your situation.

Hire a lawyer. Do not try to resolve something like this on your own.

I suggest you write them a very nice letter, or have a friend write for you, wherein you request an itemization of what they allege you owe then. Should they give you that info, do not respond or argue, simply go see a lawyer, for two reasons: 1) You likely will be charged with the crime of theft, and will need an attorney. The more you harass them back, the more likely they will press charges from you, and have you arrested. 2) You should get advice from an attorney in your state concerning "emails to friends and business partners" This may be slander. It may not, especially if what they are saying is true. Otherwise, I do not see anything illegal here on their part. They are free to allege anything they wish, so long as they only communicate with you. This answer is based on Georgia law, and is based solely on the information you gave me. If you are not in Georgia, you should ignore this response and talk to an attorney in your state. Also, you should seek the advice of an attorney, who has all the facts. You may not rely on what I have stated herein.

You need to confer with an attorney will all of the details. There is the potential of them bring a criminal complaint. Seek counsel BEFORE you speak to ANYONE about this.