A Columbia man is behind bars for allegedly threatening to kill a cop who arrested him Friday for theft.

Keith Fauth, 38, told Columbia police Officer Brent Smith "you're dead," while threatening the officer and his family, police reported.

Fauth, of 1025 Ridge Ave., was being arrested for stealing credit cards and other personal items when he made the statements, according to Columbia police Sgt. Marc Tremblay.

Fauth told witnesses that he knows where Smith lives and what time he goes to work, Tremblay reported.

"I will see (Smith), but he won't see me," Fauth said, while making threats to use a gun, police said.

He went on to to threaten Smith's family, saying "you can't be at home all the time," Tremblay reported.

Fauth allegedly stole the items from an employee of Susquehanna Glass Factory at 731 Avenue H, Columbia.

Witnesses said he took the items from a woman's purse. Police recovered from Fauth credit cards, Social Security cards, medical cards and a pay stub. The items belonged to several people, police allege.

Tremblay filed charges of theft by unlawful taking, terroristic threats -- both misdemeanors -- and disorderly conduct.

District Judge Nancy Hamill arraigned Fauth on Friday night and set bail at $50,000.

bhambright@lnpnews.com