Timothy Busfield faces child sex abuse charges in New Mexico
Following accusations tied to misconduct during a TV production, Timothy Busfield - actor and director, recognized by an Emmy win - handed himself over to law enforcement in Albuquerque. Authorities had issued a warrant citing claims involving a minor on set.
TL;DR
After claims emerged about inappropriate contact involving two underage actors, Timothy Busfield appeared voluntarily at a police facility in New Mexico. While authorities continue their examination, he maintains that the charges lack foundation. Though unproven, the situation is still active within legal channels.
Tuesday morning began with Timothy Busfield appearing at a police station in Albuquerque following the issuance of an arrest warrant. Known widely for roles on screen and behind the camera, including recognition at major award events, his presence drew immediate attention. Accusations involve conduct said to have occurred with a person under legal adulthood. Law enforcement sources confirm three separate allegations are now active: two tied directly to bodily contact with a minor, one related to causing injury to a young individual. Details so far come entirely from official statements made by those overseeing the ongoing investigation.
Allegations serve as foundation for accusations aimed at Busfield, tied to inappropriate physical interaction with two young individuals while filming “The Cleaning Lady.” Occurrences reportedly unfolded across time, starting in November 2022, continuing until start of 2024. Paperwork filed by an officer based in Albuquerque details these assertions thoroughly.
A representative of the Albuquerque Police Department, Gilbert Gallegos, stated that Busfield entered custody soon after turning himself in. Charges were formally filed once the warrant took effect, which came about on January 9. This followed work stretching across several months.
Court records show a young boy said Busfield made contact several times above his clothes at age seven. At eight, the same child described further instances - five or six additional episodes occurred, he stated. Fear kept him silent, according to testimony, due to Busfield holding authority and concerns about consequences arising later.
A report came forward from the boy's sibling - also his twin - about contact made by Busfield, without detail on location. Authorities heard from him that silence was kept due to fear of consequences.
During an interview with law enforcement last autumn, Busfield stated he did not commit the acts alleged, as noted in the complaint. It could be the children's mother invented the accusations, he proposed, following their removal from the series. Contact such as lifting or gentle teasing might have occurred, he said, given the lighthearted nature of the production setting.
A recording acquired by TMZ captures Busfield positioned near a glass pane, cityscape behind him. As seen there, he states having traveled beyond two thousand miles to surrender voluntarily.
“I am going to confront these lies,” Busfield said in the video. “They are horrible. They are all lies.”
One twin’s parent, listed by initials in legal documents, notified child welfare officials about possible harm. Following a physician's report from University of New Mexico Hospital, scrutiny started in late 2024. A legal team had advised the family to seek medical care there.
According to court documents, a diagnosis of post-traumatic stress disorder alongside anxiety has been made for one boy. Nightmares that return again and again, tied to Busfield, were shared by the child - information recorded by a social worker.
A probe was launched by Warner Bros., producer of “The Cleaning Lady,” following claims detailed in a filing. Findings were inconclusive, the studio stated. Broadcast on Fox, the show ran four seasons before concluding in 2025.
Requests for comment went unanswered by Busfield’s legal representative without delay. Under statutes in New Mexico, a conviction may result in lengthy incarceration for Busfield.
Born to parents deeply involved in show business, Busfield lives with actress Melissa Gilbert. His role on "The West Wing" brought attention, after earlier appearances in "Field of Dreams," along with subtler parts in "Thirtysomething." In 1991, recognition emerged - an Emmy given for outstanding supporting performance in a dramatic series. Despite frequent association with group-driven productions, that year highlighted personal distinction.
Investigation into the matter continues. Still pending review by authorities. Details emerge slowly over time. No conclusion has been reached yet.