Actor Timothy Busfield Charged with Sexually Abusing Boys on TV Series Set

Actor Timothy Busfield Charged with Sexual Abuse of Boys on TV Series Set

In a shocking turn of events, actor Timothy Busfield has been charged with sexually abusing two boys on the set of “The Cleaning Lady,” a Fox crime drama. The charges, which include criminal sexual contact of a minor and child abuse, have sent shockwaves through both Hollywood and legal circles.

Busfield’s First Court Appearance

The 68-year-old actor made his first court appearance after turning himself in to authorities on criminal charges related to the alleged abuse. His lawyer, Stanton “Larry” Stein, has strenuously denied the allegations on his behalf, stating that they are “completely false.” According to Stein, Busfield’s arrest is an act of revenge by a boy’s mother who had previously terminated her son from the series.

“The claims being made against Tim are completely false, and we will fight this to the end until the truth prevails,” Stein said in a statement. The actor has starred in notable TV shows such as “Thirtysomething” and “The West Wing” and is also known for his roles in films like “Field of Dreams” and “Revenge of the Nerds.”

Allegations and Timeline

The case against Busfield stems from allegations that he groomed and sexually abused two boys while working on set. Prosecutors claim that one boy was referred to as “Uncle Tim,” and authorities allege that Busfield would tickle them on the stomach and legs, leading to inappropriate touching over years.

One of the boys alleged that Busfield touched his private areas, according to court documents. This abuse is said to have started when the boy was 7 years old and he feared speaking out due to fear of retaliation from Busfield. The boy has since been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and anxiety, according to the court documents.

Busfield’s lawyer provided a video statement where he stated that he was contacted on Friday night about getting a lawyer and drove 2,000 miles to Albuquerque to surrender himself. “They’re all lies and I did not do anything to those little boys and I’m gonna fight it,” he said in the video.

Additional Allegations

In an affidavit supporting his arrest warrant, authorities alleged that Busfield also kissed and groped a 16-year-old girl. The new accusation surfaced after prosecutors noted it in their motion asking for him to remain in custody. This additional allegation claims the encounter happened at the B-Street Theatre in Sacramento “several years ago” when the girl was auditioning.

Warner Bros Television and Fox, producers of “The Cleaning Lady,” have stated that they are aware of the charges against Busfield and will work with law enforcement. They emphasized their commitment to protecting the health and safety of their cast and crew.

Legal Proceedings

The case is now being transferred to district court, and a hearing has been set for January 20th to determine whether Busfield should be released on bail pending trial. District Attorney Sam Bregman urged anyone with information to contact law enforcement during the media conference.

Meanwhile, Busfield’s wife, actress Melissa Gilbert, expressed support for her husband while respecting his legal team’s advice not to speak publicly. “She is honoring the request of Tim’s lawyers not to speak publicly while the legal process unfolds,” said Ame Van Iden, her publicist.

The case against Timothy Busfield highlights the ongoing issues of sexual abuse allegations in the entertainment industry and the complex legal battles that ensue. As the trial progresses, all eyes will be on the outcome, which could have significant implications for both Busfield’s career and the broader discourse around child protection in Hollywood.