Actor and director Timothy Busfield, known for his roles in TV shows like West Wing and movies like Field of Dreams, has been charged with four counts of criminal sexual contact with a child under 13 years old in New Mexico. The charges stem from his time working on the TV series The Cleaning Lady from 2022 to 2024.
Busfield has denied the accusations, which were initially brought to court by law enforcement. His defense attorney stated that he will vigorously contest the charges. The indictment was announced by Bernalillo County District Attorney Sam Bregman through a social media post.
Previously, Busfield surrendered to authorities in January on related charges but was released by a judge who found no prior criminal behavior or similar allegations involving children in Busfield’s history. The grand jury’s decision now allows the case to proceed without a preliminary hearing.
Larry Stein, Busfield’s attorney, mentioned that the grand jury did not support grooming charges as requested by the prosecutors. Stein emphasized weaknesses in the state’s evidence during a detention hearing and affirmed Busfield’s commitment to challenge the charges in court.
Allegations from an investigator at the Albuquerque Police Department detail incidents where Busfield allegedly touched the private areas of two boys, aged seven and eight, during separate occasions. The indictment specifies multiple instances of inappropriate physical contact.
Despite Busfield’s release following the initial arrest, Assistant District Attorney Savannah Brandenburg-Koch asserted the strength of the evidence against him, citing medical findings and the boys’ therapist’s support. Prosecutors highlighted a pattern of grooming behavior and misuse of authority over a span of three decades.
Each criminal count carries a potential prison sentence of six years, with the possibility of enhancement for sexual offenses. Despite concerns about public safety, the judge deemed Busfield’s release appropriate, noting his past contributions to the entertainment industry, including his acclaimed performances in Thirtysomething, for which he won an Emmy award in 1991.
