Former Half Moon Bay Policeman Faces Jail Time for Assault, Violating Restraining Order

A San Carlos resident and former policeman who worked several years as a Half Moon Bay officer is facing up to 10 years in prison for allegedly harassing his ex-girlfriend and attacking a man at her house.

Colin Smith, 47, was arrested last August on charges of felony assault, battery and burglary. Smith left Half Moon Bay's force in 2010 and joined the San Mateo County Sheriff’s Office as a deputy for the San Carlos division. The Sheriff’s Office reportedly put him on administrative leave this fall and later fired him.

According to District Attorney Steve Wagstaffe, Smith allegedly punched a man he believed his girlfriend was dating. The incident occurred on Aug. 17 when Smith sent the woman text messages while on duty, demanding to know why she was with another man, according to prosecutors. Smith then drove to his girlfriend's house after his work shift, demanded to be let in, and found the man, who prosecutors say Smith attacked, breaking the victim’s nose and eye socket.

Smith pleaded not guilty in September at an arraignment hearing. A judge issued a restraining order prohibiting him from contacting his ex-girlfriend but prosecutors say he started stalking the girlfriend this past fall.

Smith was arrested for violating the restraining order on Dec. 4. He is being charged with felony witness intimidation, with possible added penalties for violating his restraining order and committing a crime while out on bail, according to Wagstaffe. 

He was released after posting bail at $100,000.