In brief
Timothy Busfield, the acclaimed director and actor, has surrendered to authorities in New Mexico after being charged with criminal sexual contact of a minor and child abuse. Allegations suggest that he inappropriately touched two young boys during filming for the series 'The Cleaning Lady.' Reports indicate that the incidents occurred between late 2022 and early 2024, with the boys' parents seeking assistance after the children revealed their trauma. The investigation follows a report from a physician who noted the boys' distress and diagnosis of PTSD.
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Emmy Award-winning actor and director Timothy Busfield has turned himself into authorities in New Mexico to face serious charges of child sex abuse. This arrest follows a warrant issued on January 9, 2024, for two counts of criminal sexual contact with minors and one count of child abuse.
The charges emerged from allegations that Busfield inappropriately touched a young boy multiple times while directing the TV series 'The Cleaning Lady.' A criminal complaint, which details incidents from November 2022 to spring 2024, states that the boy, initially hesitant to report the incidents due to fear, eventually disclosed the abuse with his twin brother corroborating similar experiences.
According to police records, the mother of the twins contacted Child Protective Services after witnessing signs of distress in her children. One of the boys is reportedly undergoing therapy for issues related to post-traumatic stress and anxiety linked to the incidents. The investigation began when a doctor at the University of New Mexico Hospital alerted authorities after the family sought help.
In an earlier interview with investigators, Busfield denied the allegations, asserting that he was targeted out of revenge by the boys’ mother due to their replacements on the series. The investigation by Warner Bros., which produced 'The Cleaning Lady,' was unable to substantiate the allegations following their own inquiries.
Busfield, well-known for his roles in 'The West Wing' and 'Field of Dreams,' has not had public comment from his legal representatives regarding this ongoing legal matter.
