Child Sex Abuse Charges Dropped Against Actor Timothy Busfield Due to Prosecutorial Misconduct

Child sex abuse charges against actor Timothy Busfield have been dismissed after a judge determined prosecutorial misconduct occurred.

Second Judicial District Court Judge Joseph Montano in Albuquerque, New Mexico, ruled on Friday that prosecutors improperly withheld witnesses, leading to the dismissal of four counts of criminal sexual contact with a minor against the 69-year-old actor. Busfield is known for his roles in "The West Wing" and "Thirtysomething."

Prosecutors in New Mexico could still file new charges, but have not yet indicated whether they intend to do so. Busfield has consistently denied the allegations, stating they are false and motivated by revenge.

The case originated from incidents alleged to have occurred between 2022 and 2024, when Busfield was directing the TV series "The Cleaning Lady" in Albuquerque. The parents of twin boys, who were reportedly let go from the show, claimed Busfield inappropriately touched their children on set. According to a police complaint filed in January, one of the boys reported that Busfield touched him over his clothing on two occasions, when he was seven and again when he was eight years old. The boy's twin brother also told authorities he was touched by Busfield, but did not specify the nature of the contact, reportedly stating he remained silent to avoid trouble.