Timothy Busfield Faces Child Sex Abuse Charges in Court Appearance

by SUSAN MONTOYA BRYAN and MORGAN LEE, Associated Press

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) – Emmy ‍Award-winning⁤ actor⁤ Timothy Busfield ‌appeared in ‌court Wednesday following his self-surrender to authorities‌ to ‌face charges of child sex abuse,⁤ stemming from allegations he inappropriately touched a minor on the set of the TV⁣ series “The ⁤Cleaning Lady” in ⁣New⁤ Mexico.

Albuquerque police issued ‍an arrest ⁣warrant last week on two⁢ counts ‌of criminal sexual contact ​of⁣ a ⁢minor and one count of⁢ child abuse.⁣ A criminal ⁢complaint details allegations that​ the acts occurred during the production of “The⁢ Cleaning⁢ Lady,” ‌filmed ⁣in Albuquerque.

Busfield,‍ married to actor Melissa Gilbert​ and known for⁤ his roles in “The West‍ Wing,”⁤ “Field of Dreams,” and “Thirtysomething,” maintains ‌his innocence and vows to fight ⁢the ​charges.Before surrendering, Busfield released a video asserting the allegations were​ false.

Prosecutors are seeking to detain Busfield pending trial. A motion filed early Wednesday outlines their ‍rationale, citing a documented pattern ‍of alleged sexual misconduct, abuse of authority, and grooming⁤ behavior spanning⁤ two decades. They‌ also ​state witnesses fear retaliation and professional ⁢repercussions.

The motion argues that individuals in positions ‌of authority, status, or influence are uniquely able to evade accountability and circumvent safeguards ⁤designed to protect children. “In light of the defendant’s demonstrated disregard ​for boundaries, authority and compliance,⁢ no‌ condition or combination of conditions of release can reasonably protect the victims or the community,” the motion states.

A judge will determine whether to grant the detention request; a hearing date has‌ not⁣ yet been set.

Prosecutors ⁢also criticized ‌Busfield for disseminating the​ video to TMZ, arguing‍ he prioritized “personal narrative control⁢ and public relations” over adherence to⁣ the court process.

According to the criminal complaint, the ⁢alleged⁢ victim reported being 7 years ​old when Busfield allegedly ‌touched him ‌multiple times on his private‍ areas over his clothing. ⁢ ⁢The complaint further alleges ​a separate incident occurred when the child was 8 years ‌old.

The‌ complaint also states ⁢the child was reportedly hesitant to disclose the abuse, fearing Busfield’s reaction as the director.