UPDATE: Timothy Busfield, the 68-year-old actor known for his role in The West Wing, appeared in court today wearing an orange jumpsuit, facing serious charges of child sex abuse. Busfield has been officially charged with two counts of criminal sexual contact of a minor and one count of child abuse involving allegations against 11-year-old twin boys.
The court proceedings come after a warrant was issued for Busfield’s arrest on January 4, 2024. Following several days of his whereabouts being unknown, he surrendered to authorities in Albuquerque on January 13, 2024. The charges stem from claims that he engaged in unlawful sexual conduct with the minors, with one victim alleging the abuse began at the age of just seven.
The judge has confirmed that Busfield’s pretrial detention hearing will occur within the next five business days, with a preliminary hearing deadline set for January 29. Disturbingly, details have emerged indicating that the alleged incidents took place on the set of The Cleaning Lady, where Busfield served as director.
In a video interview obtained by TMZ prior to his arrest, Busfield vehemently denied the allegations, labeling them “lies.” He stated, “I’m gonna confront these lies. They’re horrible,” and claimed he would fight the charges with a legal team, asserting, “I did not do anything to those little boys.”
According to the warrant details, one child reported that Busfield touched him three times on private areas while he was seven, escalating to five or six incidents when he turned eight. The child reportedly did not disclose the abuse due to fear of Busfield, whom he referred to as “Uncle Tim.” A second victim alleged inappropriate touching over a two-year period, spanning from November 2022 to spring 2024, while working on the show.
With over 700 credits as an actor, director, and producer, Busfield’s career includes winning an Emmy for his role in Thirtysomething in 1991. His portrayal of Danny Concannon in The West Wing remains a significant highlight of his career, showcasing a reporter who often challenged the administration’s transparency.
As the legal proceedings unfold, the impact of these allegations reverberates beyond Busfield’s career. The emotional toll on the victims and their families is immeasurable, raising urgent conversations about child safety in the entertainment industry.
Stay tuned for updates as this developing story continues to unfold. What happens next will be closely monitored by fans and the public alike, as the legal system addresses these serious allegations against a well-known figure.
