Timothy Busfield, the Emmy-winning actor and director best known for roles on The West Wing and Thirtysomething, has been jailed in Albuquerque, New Mexico, after surrendering to face multiple child sex abuse charges. Busfield, 68, is accused of inappropriate conduct with two minors on the set of a television drama he directed. He denies all allegations and vows to contest the charges in court.
Charges and Arrest Details
Busfield was booked into the Bernalillo County Metropolitan Detention Center without bond after turning himself in to authorities on January 13, following a warrant issued earlier in the week. He faces two counts of criminal sexual contact of a minor and one count of child abuse stemming from accusations that he touched two 11-year-old twin boys inappropriately while working on a TV series.
According to the criminal complaint, the alleged incidents took place between 2022 and 2024 during production of the Fox drama The Cleaning Lady, where Busfield served as executive producer and director.
Allegations and Legal Defense
The complaint asserts that one of the twin boys reported repeated inappropriate touching beginning when he was seven years old, and his brother also alleged similar contact. One of the children was later diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder and anxiety, according to court documents.
In a video statement made prior to surrendering, Busfield called the allegations “lies” and maintained his innocence, asserting he will fight to clear his name. His attorney has also emphasized his intention to contest the charges.
Industry Reactions and Next Steps
Following the charges, networks and producers have taken precautionary measures, including pulling an upcoming Law & Order: SVU episode featuring Busfield. Warner Bros., which produced The Cleaning Lady, cooperated with authorities but reported no corroborating evidence in its internal review.
Busfield’s first court appearance is scheduled soon, where a judge will address bail conditions and formal proceedings.
