Response to Timothy Busfield’s Alleged Misconduct

Timothy Busfield’s team has publicly addressed recent accusations of sexual abuse leveled against him.

A statement from his legal representatives argues, “The state’s attempt to reinterpret responsible actions as something sinister highlights the lack of substantial evidence of any danger.” They’re pushing back against claims made during the investigation.

Currently, prosecutors are looking to keep Busfield, who is 68, detained until his trial, but his defense team believes the foundation for such action isn’t justified.

“The motion to incarcerate him is based on a narrative that has already been discredited by independent evaluations,” his attorneys, Amber Feierberg and Christopher Dodd, stated. They assert, “The state hasn’t offered credible proof; only allegations from individuals known for dishonesty, which have been dismissed by a thorough investigation.” They believe that the Constitution does not allow for such liberty deprivation without real evidence.

The defense elaborated, saying, “Given the independent inquiries that challenge the state’s allegations, positive results from polygraph tests, and a robust character reference, the state hasn’t proven there’s a pressing risk to the community. Thus, they should release him under reasonable conditions.”

Initially, Busfield was charged with two counts related to criminal sexual conduct involving a minor and one charge of child abuse. He has denied all allegations.

In a statement, Busfield’s attorney, Larry Stein, emphasized that “Tim Busfield firmly denies the claims made in the complaint, asserting they are entirely false.”

His defense team also presented testimonials from notable figures, including his wife, Melissa Gilbert, and director Edward Zwick, who defend his character.

Ken Olin, an actor and long-time friend of Busfield, expressed in a letter, “I have known Timothy well over the years, and he has consistently been a caring individual. I truly believe he would never harm anyone, particularly a child.”

The accusations stem from a complaint filed on January 14, alleging that he sexually abused a 16-year-old girl in Sacramento, California, years ago. Colin Swift, the alleged father of the victim, reported the incident on January 13, prompting the pretrial detention request.

On the same day, Busfield turned himself in to authorities in Albuquerque.

The complaint alleges he had inappropriate contact with a minor during a rehearsal at the B Street Theater and that he pressured his family not to inform authorities if medical help was sought. The therapist involved in the case agreed that reporting the incident was the right course of action at the time.

Busfield is also accused of engaging in inappropriate conduct with twin boys during filming of the Fox show “Cleaning Women,” which he produced. He denies these charges as well.

According to a warrant, he allegedly touched one boy several times and the other more frequently, with the alleged incidents starting in 2022 when the boys were just 7 years old.

The issue first came to light in November 2024, after a doctor alerted the police about suspected grooming and abuse following an examination of a child.

In an interview, Busfield mentioned it was likely he interacted with children on set and noted there were no strict rules on physical contact during filming. He described the environment as playful, saying he was often around others.

Following his surrender to police, a video of Busfield denying the charges was shared with the media. He strongly defended his actions, claiming, “I didn’t do anything to those kids. This is all false.” He expressed confidence in his upcoming legal battle, aiming for acquittal.

As of Wednesday, Busfield’s talent agency, Innovative Artists, has ended its association with him, having represented him for many years.