Columbus Short; Fugitive From Justice: ‘Scandal’ Star Evading Arrest In Barbados; Warrant Issued
Despite being wanted for multiple criminal charges, Columbus Short says he won’t be returning to the U.S. to face trial. Instead, the actor, singer, and producer has moved himself to Barbados, and says he’s working on an accent.
On Tuesday, TMZ reports that Columbus Short showed up late for a court appearance that was meant to address a potential order of protection for Short’s wife. Afterward, Short laughed it off, refusing to speak to a reporter. On Wednesday, however, Short was due in court for a domestic violence charge, and didn’t show up late — instead, he didn’t show up at all. He later posted on Twitter about a red eye flight to Barbados, and plans to party.
Red Eye travelling at Eagle Eye height…#BarbadosBaby #CatchMeIfYouCanLiving pic.twitter.com/RdUdZeaKMH — Columbus Short (@ColumbusShort1) July 30, 2014
Short, who is known for his role in the ABC show Scandal, apparently plans to keep up a life in the entertainment industry. BET reports that Short plans to open a camp to nurture artists in Barbados, and he’s tweeted about other plans.
“@ms_breezy__: @ColumbusShort1 When do you come in France?! :)” September — Columbus Short (@ColumbusShort1) August 2, 2014
“@cairns_heather: @ColumbusShort1 if you’re not going back to the US then get your ass to the UK. Pronto! ” B there next month — Columbus Short (@ColumbusShort1) August 2, 2014
BET adds that Short said he “chose to be [in Barbados] over any B.S. in the States.” TMZ notes that extradition isn’t an option since all of the charges against short are misdemeanors. Short also uploaded a video, calling himself an “honorary Bajan” and showing off his new accent.
There’s currently a bench warrant issued for the arrest of Columbus Short, but if he chooses not to re-enter the United States, it may be hard to serve. In the meantime, Short isn’t just partying. He says he’s also supporting the HIV Food Bank on Barbados while he takes part in the annual Crop Over harvest festival, along with other celebrities, including Will Smith and Rihanna.
@ElkeHassell @willsmith @rihanna Not just about #CropOver its about #HIVFoodBank and really rolling our sleeves up for the island #Respect — Columbus Short (@ColumbusShort1) August 2, 2014
Short is facing charges not only for domestic violence, but for a fight with off-duty police officers, and has previously made headlines for violent acts. If Columbus Short does decide to set foot back in the U.S., he may find himself also facing additional choices for deciding to flee instead of facing up to his actions.
[Photo: Twitter]