Timothy Busfield has forcefully denied child sex abuse allegations against him, with strong support from his 'thirtysomething' castmates and others. In a court filing, his lawyers argue that the case lacks credible evidence and that prosecutors are trying to keep him detained unjustly.
The filing, submitted in New Mexico courts, states: 'The State’s attempt to transform responsible self-surrender into aggravating conduct only underscores the absence of genuine evidence of dangerousness.' It claims that allegations come from witnesses with histories of fraud and financial exploitation, contradicted by a studio investigation and risk assessments.
Busfield, 68, faces two counts of criminal sexual contact with a minor and child abuse, relating to two brothers born in 2014 who appeared on 'The Cleaning Lady,' which he directed. He could face up to a decade in prison if convicted. Previous claims from 1994 and 2021 did not result in charges.
In a police interview, Busfield said the boys' mother sought revenge after he did not bring her children back for the final season of 'The Cleaning Lady.' The warrant notes that allegations escalated in September 2025 when one boy reported inappropriate touching to a counsellor.
Busfield turned himself in on January 13 and is held without bond. His lawyers submitted letters of support from his wife Melissa Gilbert, 'thirtysomething' showrunner Edward Zwick, and actor Ken Olin, who wrote: 'I know in the very bottom of my heart that Timothy would never do anything to cruelly...' A pre-trial detention hearing is scheduled next week.
