SJ police officer accused of abusing girlfriend and firing service weapon at home: DA

SAN JOSE, CALIFORNIA – A San Jose police officer faces both felony and misdemeanor charges. Prosecutors say he repeatedly assaulted his now-pregnant girlfriend, held her against her will and fired his service weapon inside her home.

According to the Santa Clara County District Attorney's Office, 31-year-old Timothy Hackney of Morgan Hill is on leave from the San Jose Police Department and has been served with a restraining order on a gun charge.

Prosecutors allege Hackney has committed repeated acts of domestic violence against his girlfriend for over a year. In one instance, prosecutors say, Hackney fired a bullet through the ceiling while the young child was in the house.

Another alleged incident occurred during a trip last year. Prosecutors accuse Hackney of slapping the phone out of his girlfriend's hand when she threatened to call the police. Prosecutors said she managed to escape to a nearby restaurant, where she called 911 but hung up before she could speak to police.

In another incident in June, Hackney is accused of forcibly dragging his girlfriend into her bedroom to prevent her from leaving the house, covering her mouth and nose and throwing her phone to prevent her from calling the police.

“Domestic violence is a horrific, destructive crime and all perpetrators must be held accountable – with or without a badge,” District Attorney Jeff Rosen said in a statement.

Hackney was charged this week with both high and low crimes, including false imprisonment, improper discharge of his service weapon and multiple counts of assault. Prosecutors said he could face prison if convicted.