In a packed courtroom in Albuquerque, New Mexico, actress Melissa Gilbert — longtime wife of actor and director Timothy Busfield.
Struggled to hold back tears as a judge delivered a ruling that took many by surprise and set off a firestorm of media attention, legal analysis, and public reaction. On January 20, 2026, District Court Judge David Murphy ruled that Busfield, 68.
Could be released from jail on his own recognizance while he awaits trial on two counts of criminal sexual contact of a minor and one count of child abuse. The ruling capped a tumultuous week that began with a dramatic arrest and has since unfolded into one of the most discussed legal sagas involving a Hollywood figure in recent memory.
From Arrest Warrant to Surrender: How the Case Unfolded
Earlier this month, authorities in Albuquerque issued an arrest warrant for Timothy Busfield, best known for his Emmy‑winning role on Thirtysomething, as well as recurring appearances on The West Wing and other major film and television projects.
According to court documents and a criminal complaint obtained by multiple outlets, the charges stem from allegations that Busfield inappropriately touched two 11‑year‑old twin boys on the set of the Fox drama The Cleaning Lady, where he served as a director and producer.
Prosecutors allege that the inappropriate contact began in 2022, when the children — both cast members — were as young as 7 and continued through spring 2024
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