I paid my contractor up front. He took my money and ran. I filed in small claims court. He just sent a threatening email. What now?

Original post is here https://www.reddit.com/r/legaladvice/comments/b2qtuh/i_paid_my_contractor_up_front_because_im_an_idiot/?utm_medium=android_app&utm_source=share

I just recieved an email. Here's the contents.

"Because of hours spent in the home I do not owe anything, this is my reply to your small claims court. If you try and make me go to court I will hurt you and your dogs."

So uh what now because I am PANICKING! This dude spent 8 years in jail for beating someone with a crowbar.

Texas.

Written By: genericusername5250
Source: http://bit.ly/2Um0YM5