A temporary restraining order has been filed against Aida Short, the estranged wife of actor Columbus Short, following allegations of stalking, harassment, and physical violence. The petition was filed by Chantel Heath, who describes herself as a longtime friend of the actor.
According to court documents obtained by TMZ, Heath alleges that Aida Short has harassed her on at least three separate occasions. In one particularly violent incident, Heath claims Aida Short located her at a friend's residence and physically attacked her using wine bottles and plates while directing profanity at her.
The filing reveals that Aida Short apparently believes Heath is romantically involved with Columbus Short. However, Heath categorically denies any romantic relationship, stating in the court papers that Columbus Short has been like a brother to her and has never engaged in romantic or flirtatious behavior toward her.
Heath requested that the court order Aida Short to maintain a distance of at least 100 yards from herself and her two daughters, citing concerns for their safety. The petition indicates that Heath now fears for her life and the well-being of her children due to the alleged pattern of threatening behavior.
Despite the serious nature of the allegations, a hearing scheduled earlier this month concluded with the case being dismissed after Heath failed to appear in court. The dismissal represents a procedural outcome rather than a determination on the merits of the allegations.
This legal action emerges against a backdrop of documented domestic turmoil between Columbus Short and Aida Short. Last year, Columbus Short was awarded a temporary restraining order against his wife following an incident in which he alleged she kicked and threw a 10-week-old puppy before physically assaulting him, resulting in a busted eye and bleeding. That incident led to Aida Short's arrest.
Following that restraining order, Columbus Short informed friends of his intention to pursue divorce proceedings. However, the situation proved more complex when Aida Short subsequently filed her own restraining order, alleging that Columbus Short had choked her.
The couple's history of domestic violence extends back several years. In 2018, Columbus Short entered a no contest plea to charges of hitting Aida and subsequently served jail time for the offense.
The pattern of allegations and counter-allegations between the estranged couple, now extending to involve third parties, illustrates the complex and volatile nature of their separation. The dismissal of Heath's petition leaves unresolved the question of whether additional legal protections will be sought or granted in the future.