Key Highlights
- Timothy Busfield faces charges of criminal sexual contact of a minor and child abuse.
- A warrant was issued for the actor in New Mexico after he allegedly abused a child on set.
- The alleged abuse began in 2022 when the victim was 7 years old.
- Busfield is best known for his role as Danny Concannon on “The West Wing.”
New Charges against ‘West Wing’ Actor Timothy Busfield
The entertainment industry has been rocked by a new development in the ongoing legal case against actor and director Timothy Busfield. According to an arrest warrant issued this past Friday, Busfield is now facing charges of criminal sexual contact of a minor and child abuse. This comes after an investigation that began last November 2024.
Accusations on Set
The accusations stem from events that allegedly took place during the production of “The Cleaning Lady,” where Busfield directed and acted. According to court documents obtained by ABC News, the actor is accused of inappropriately touching a child actor on set. The criminal complaint states that these incidents began in 2022 when the child was only 7 years old.
Timeline and Investigation
The investigation into Busfield’s alleged actions was triggered by a report from a physician at University of New Mexico Hospital who examined the victim after suspected sexual abuse. The parents of the boy reported that the abuse began in November 2022, but did not come forward with their allegations until around Spring 2024.
During this time, Warner Bros., which produced “The Cleaning Lady,” conducted an independent investigation into the allegations and could not find evidence to support them at the time. In a statement provided to ABC News, a company spokesperson said, “We take all allegations of misconduct very seriously and have systems in place to promptly and thoroughly investigate, and when needed, take appropriate action. We are aware of the current charges against Mr. Busfield and have been and will continue to cooperate with law enforcement.”
Personal Life and Reactions
Timothy Busfield is married to actress Melissa Gilbert. As of the time of writing, it’s unclear if he is currently in custody or how his personal life has been affected by these charges. ABC News reached out to Busfield via his agent but did not immediately receive a response.
Busfield denied the allegations when interviewed by investigators, according to the criminal complaint.
He faces two counts of criminal sexual contact of a minor and one count of child abuse. The warrant was issued by the Albuquerque Police Department in New Mexico.
Background on Busfield
Timothy Busfield is best known for his role as Danny Concannon on the long-running political drama “The West Wing.” His career spans over two decades, making him a familiar face to many who follow American television. The actor’s involvement in such a serious legal matter has sent shockwaves through the entertainment community.
As this case continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how these charges will impact Busfield’s future and his legacy within the industry. For now, the focus is on the ongoing legal proceedings and the victim’s family, whose names have not been released in accordance with child protection laws.
The legal process for Timothy Busfield is far from over.
The case remains under investigation by local authorities, who will determine the next steps based on all evidence presented. As more details emerge, ABC News will keep you updated on this developing story.