In brief
Authorities in New Mexico have issued an arrest warrant for Timothy Busfield, an Emmy Award-winning actor and director, in connection to charges of child sexual abuse. The allegations involve inappropriate contact with a minor during the filming of the TV series 'The Cleaning Lady.' An investigation revealed the incidents took place between late 2022 and early 2024, during which the child expressed fear and anxiety about the encounters. Warner Bros. has been unable to corroborate the claims despite conducting its own investigation.
Authorities in New Mexico issued an arrest warrant on Friday for director and Emmy Award-winning actor Timothy Busfield to face charges of child sexual abuse. An investigator with the Albuquerque Police Department filed a criminal complaint that cites an alleged incident where a minor reported that Busfield touched him inappropriately during the filming of 'The Cleaning Lady,' a TV series Busfield directed and starred in. According to statements from the child, the abuse began when he was just seven years old, experiencing multiple incidents over two years. The child's mother reported the abuse to Child Protective Services, stating that it occurred between November 2022 and spring 2024. The arrest warrant specifies two counts of criminal sexual contact with a minor. The psychological impact on the child has been significant, with reports of nightmares and diagnosed post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). He expressed a fear of reporting the incidents, worried about repercussions from Busfield, who held a position of authority as director.The investigation initiated in November 2024 after a doctor at the University of New Mexico Hospital contacted authorities following concerns raised by the child's parents, prompted by a law firm’s advice. 'The Cleaning Lady,' which aired for four seasons on Fox until 2025, featured Elodie Yung and revolved around a Cambodian doctor entangled in the world of organized crime after witnessing a mob killing. Busfield, known for roles in 'The West Wing,' 'Field of Dreams,' and 'Thirtysomething,' where he won an Emmy in 1991, has not yet commented through his attorney or agent. He is currently married to actor Melissa Gilbert.
