In brief
Timothy Busfield, known for his roles in 'The West Wing' and 'Field of Dreams', is facing an arrest warrant in New Mexico on charges of child sex abuse. Allegations state that he inappropriately touched a child multiple times between November 2022 and spring 2024 while directing 'The Cleaning Lady.' The investigation began after a doctor reported the child's claims to authorities. Busfield's legal representatives have not yet commented on the allegations.
Authorities in New Mexico issued an arrest warrant Friday for Timothy Busfield, a well-known director and Emmy Award-winning actor, in connection to charges of child sex abuse. According to a criminal complaint filed by an investigator with the Albuquerque Police Department, a child accused Busfield of inappropriate touching on the set of the TV series 'The Cleaning Lady,' which he directed and appeared in.The alleged incidents reportedly started when the child was just 7 years old, with claims that Busfield touched him three or four times. A second incident allegedly occurred when the child was 8, where he was touched five or six times. The abuse is said to have taken place between November 2022 and spring 2024, as reported by the child's mother to Child Protective Services.The complaint notes that the child has been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder and anxiety, often suffering from nightmares related to the incidents. Fearing repercussions from Busfield due to his authoritative role as director, the child was reportedly hesitant to speak up about the abuse.The arrest warrant, signed by a judge, details two counts of criminal sexual contact of a minor. The investigation into the matter began in November 2024 after a physician at the University of New Mexico Hospital alerted police following consultations with the child's parents.Busfield is recognized for his prominent roles in television and film, including 'The West Wing,' 'Field of Dreams,' and 'Thirtysomething,' for which he received an Emmy in 1991. He is currently married to actor Melissa Gilbert. As of now, neither Busfield's attorney nor agent has commented on the charges.
