ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — Emmy Award-winning actor and director Timothy Busfield turned himself in to authorities on Tuesday after a warrant was issued for his arrest on child sex abuse charges related to incidents allegedly occurring in New Mexico.
The charges include two counts of criminal sexual contact with a minor and one count of child abuse, stemming from accusations that Busfield inappropriately touched a young boy while directing the TV series 'The Cleaning Lady.'
According to the criminal complaint, the child reported that he was only 7 years old when these incidents began. Allegations include multiple instances of inappropriate touching, with the boy stating he was too afraid to report the incidents at the time because Busfield was in a position of authority.
The investigation reportedly began in November 2024, initiated by a report from a doctor at the University of New Mexico Hospital after the boys’ parents sought professional help. Court documents indicate that the boys' mother reported the abuse to Child Protective Services and that one of the boys has been diagnosed with PTSD and anxiety.
Busfield has denied the allegations, suggesting that the claims arose from personal grievances related to the show's casting decisions. He described the set as a playful environment and downplayed any misconduct. His legal representatives have not commented publicly on the case.
'The Cleaning Lady', which aired on Fox, lasted four seasons and was produced by Warner Bros., which conducted a separate investigation into the matter but was unable to corroborate the allegations.
Timothy Busfield, married to actress Melissa Gilbert, is widely known for his roles in a variety of television series and films, having won an Emmy in 1991 for his performance in 'Thirtysomething.'
