Columbus Short Granted Restraining Order Amid Shocking Allegations Involving Wife and Puppy
Actor Columbus Short, best known for his role on Scandal, has been granted a temporary restraining order against his wife, Aida Abramyan Short, following a disturbing series of alleged domestic violence incidents — one of which reportedly involved a 10-week-old puppy.
The situation, which unfolded this week in Los Angeles, has left fans shocked and deeply concerned.
A Fractured Household
According to court documents obtained by Media Take Out, Short claims the incident occurred earlier this week when he confronted Aida about her treatment of their new puppy — a 10-week-old dog the actor says she allegedly kicked and threw after it had an accident inside the house.
When Columbus stood up for the animal, things allegedly turned violent. He claims Aida struck him multiple times in the face, reportedly opening a wound near his eye and drawing blood. Police were called to the scene after a neighbor — alarmed by screaming — feared someone was being seriously hurt inside the home.
Short says police saw visible bruising on him when they arrived, and Aida was taken into custody.
A Pattern of Alleged Abuse
In the filing, Columbus outlines what he says is a longstanding pattern of physical and verbal abuse, not just toward him but also within earshot of their two young children.
He alleges that since bringing the puppy home in June, tensions have escalated. One earlier incident reportedly involved Aida reacting violently when the dog had an accident indoors. According to Columbus, she began kicking the puppy, prompting him to intervene — at which point she allegedly used a glass trophy to strike him.
His filing goes on to accuse Aida of being “emotionally unstable,” and claims she’s used knives against him and has even bitten him during arguments. He describes the household as hostile and unsafe, especially for their children and pets.
What He’s Asking the Court
Columbus is now seeking legal protection for himself, the couple’s two children, and their dogs. He’s asked the court to order Aida to stay at least 100 yards away from them at all times and has requested she be removed from the family home.
Interestingly, he is not asking the court to release her from all financial responsibility — he reportedly wants her to continue covering rent, even if she is forced to relocate.
At the time of publication, Aida has not issued a public statement, and her legal team has not responded to media inquiries.
A Complicated History
This isn’t the first time Columbus Short has found himself amid legal and domestic controversy. Over the years, the actor has faced a series of personal and legal battles — including previous accusations involving violence and substance abuse — although he’s also publicly addressed efforts toward personal growth and redemption.
This latest incident, however, adds a disturbing layer involving animal cruelty, and paints a troubling picture of life inside the Short household.
As fans await further developments, one thing is clear: this isn’t just a celebrity scandal — it’s a family in crisis, and a painful reminder of the very real, often hidden, nature of domestic abuse.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-SAFE (7233). You are not alone.