By Micah Jonah
January 21, 2026
Timothy Busfield, 68, known for roles in The West Wing and Field of Dreams, has been released from jail as he awaits further proceedings on child sexual abuse allegations in New Mexico.
A judge described the evidence against Busfield as “neutral” and scheduled a preliminary hearing for January 29, where prosecutors must establish probable cause to proceed to trial.
Busfield, married to actor Melissa Gilbert, denies the allegations, calling them “lies.” Prosecutors allege he improperly touched twin boys aged 7–8 during filming of The Cleaning Lady, which he directed. Busfield admitted to playful physical contact such as tickling and lifting the boys in the presence of others.
Defense testimony, including from the show’s director of photography, stated that no inappropriate behavior was observed, and the twins later denied abuse when questioned by law enforcement.
Busfield’s legal team also claimed the children’s parents sought revenge after the twins were removed from the show, calling them “scam artists.”
