Timothy Busfield Fights Back Against Child Sex Abuse Charges: Legal Battle Unfolds
Timothy Busfield has strongly opposed the child sex abuse charges against him and the prosecution's efforts to keep him in custody. His lawyers argue that there is no genuine evidence of dangerousness and that the state's motion to imprison him should be denied. Busfield faces felony claims of criminal sexual contact with a minor and child abuse, potentially leading to a decade in state prison if found guilty.
The accusations against Busfield involve misconduct with two brothers born in 2014 who were actors on the show "The Cleaning Lady," which he directed. After turning himself in to authorities in Albuquerque, Busfield was arrested and booked, appearing in court remotely and being held without bond at the Bernalillo County Metropolitan Detention Center. He was also dropped by his agency, Innovative Artists.
In response to the charges, Busfield's supporters, including his wife Melissa Gilbert, director Edward Zwick, and fellow actors, have written letters praising his character and denying the allegations. They believe that Busfield would never harm a child and that he should be released under appropriate conditions. A clinical assessment conducted on January 15 found no risk factors that would prevent Busfield from abiding by supervision requirements if released.
Despite maintaining his innocence and passing a polygraph examination, Busfield did not enter a plea during his court appearance. A hearing on the pre-trial detention motion is scheduled for January 20, where Busfield, his lawyers, and the prosecution will present their arguments. Depending on the outcome, Busfield may be granted bail or remain in custody for an extended period.