Emmy Award-winning actor Timothy Busfield has been released from custody in New Mexico pending his trial on serious child sex abuse charges. The 68-year-old star, renowned for his roles in The West Wing and Thirtysomething, faces allegations of sexually abusing two boys on the set of a television series.
Court Hearing and Release Decision
At a court hearing in Albuquerque on Tuesday, Judge David Murphy agreed to release Busfield from jail, where he had been held since his arrest. The actor appeared in handcuffs wearing an orange prison jumpsuit during the proceedings. His legal team successfully argued that Busfield presented no danger to the community and should not remain incarcerated while awaiting potential trial.
Prosecution's Allegations
Deputy District Attorney Savannah Brandenburg-Koch presented detailed allegations against the actor, stating the claims were "specific and not exaggerated." Prosecutors allege Busfield groomed and sexually abused the children, with witnesses reportedly expressing concerns about potential retaliation and professional harm.
Defense Arguments
Busfield's lawyers suggested the allegations might stem from parental revenge after producers decided to replace the children in the television series. The actor has previously called the accusations against him "lies" and voluntarily surrendered to authorities when the charges were filed.
Judge's Reasoning
Judge Murphy acknowledged the serious nature of the charges but noted prosecutors failed to demonstrate that Busfield's release would endanger public safety. "There's no evidence of a pattern of criminal conduct, there are no similar allegations involving children in his past," the judge stated. He also highlighted that Busfield had self-surrendered and complied with court orders.
Family Support in Court
Busfield's wife, actress Melissa Gilbert known for her role in Little House on the Prairie, attended the hearing and was visibly emotional when the release was granted. Outside the courthouse, Gilbert thanked the judge for his ruling.
Career Background
Busfield became a household name portraying White House reporter Danny Concannon on the acclaimed political drama The West Wing from 1999 to 2006. He first gained recognition playing an advertising agency executive in the 1980s ensemble series Thirtysomething and appeared in the beloved 1989 baseball film Field of Dreams as Kevin Costner's brother-in-law.
The actor now faces two counts of criminal sexual contact of a minor and one count of child abuse as the legal proceedings continue. The case has drawn significant attention due to Busfield's prominent television career and the serious nature of the allegations involving child actors on a production set.
