Actor Timothy Busfield Faces Child Sex Abuse Charges in New Mexico

Authorities in New Mexico have issued an arrest warrant for actor and director Timothy Busfield, charging him with two counts of criminal sexual contact of a minor and one count of child abuse. The charges stem from allegations that Busfield inappropriately touched a child on the set of the television series "The Cleaning Lady," which he directed and acted in.

According to a criminal complaint filed by the Albuquerque Police Department, the child reported that the incidents occurred between November 2022 and spring 2024, beginning when he was 7 years old. The child alleged that Busfield touched him inappropriately multiple times during this period.

The child's mother reported the alleged abuse to Child Protective Services, and the child has since been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder and anxiety. A social worker documented that the child experienced nightmares about the alleged incidents and was afraid to report them due to Busfield's position as director.

The investigation commenced in November 2024 after a doctor at the University of New Mexico Hospital contacted authorities. The child's parents had sought medical attention for their son at the recommendation of a law firm.

"The Cleaning Lady" aired for four seasons on Fox, concluding in 2025. The show was produced by Warner Bros., which conducted its own investigation into the allegations but was unable to corroborate them.

Busfield, 68, is known for his roles in "The West Wing," "Field of Dreams," and "Thirtysomething," the latter earning him an Emmy Award in 1991. He is married to actress Melissa Gilbert.

As of now, Busfield's attorney and agent have not responded to requests for comment.