Emmy-winning actor Timothy Busfield turned himself in to authorities in Albuquerque on Tuesday to face charges of child sexual abuse, related to allegations that he inappropriately touched a minor while directing a TV series in New Mexico.
Busfield is charged with two counts of criminal sexual contact of a minor and one count of child abuse. The criminal complaint states the alleged incidents occurred on the set of The Cleaning Lady, filmed in Albuquerque. Busfield, married to actress Melissa Gilbert, has publicly denied the allegations and vowed to fight the charges.
“Tim voluntarily appeared before New Mexico authorities after traveling across the country to confront these false and deeply troubling allegations,” said his attorney, Stanton Stein. “He is innocent and is determined to clear his name.” Busfield was booked and is scheduled for a first court appearance Wednesday.
The complaint alleges that one boy was touched on private areas over his clothing at age 7 and again at age 8. The boy’s twin brother reported being touched but did not specify details. Both children reportedly feared telling anyone due to Busfield’s position as director. Busfield suggested in interviews that the boys’ mother may have sought revenge for her children being replaced on the series.
A Warner Bros.-commissioned private investigation reportedly found no evidence to corroborate the complaint. Authorities say the studio’s investigator was unable to speak with anyone who could support the allegations.
Busfield appeared in a video outside Albuquerque, saying he drove over 2,000 miles to turn himself in. “I’m going to confront these lies. They’re horrible. They’re all lies,” he stated. The U.S. Marshals Service had assisted in locating him, including in New York.
The twins’ mother initially reported the abuse to Child Protective Services, stating it occurred between November 2022 and spring 2024. One child has since been diagnosed with PTSD and anxiety, with a social worker documenting nightmares linked to the alleged incidents.
Busfield’s wife, Melissa Gilbert, has said she will not speak publicly while the legal process unfolds and is focusing on supporting their family. The Cleaning Lady aired on Fox for four seasons, concluding in 2025.
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