The entertainment world is grappling with shocking allegations as federal authorities join the search for Timothy Busfield, the 68-year-old Emmy-winning actor known for his work on The West Wing.
Busfield is accused of inappropriately touching a minor on the set of his TV series The Cleaning Lady.
A warrant has been issued for his arrest in Bernalillo County, New Mexico, where he faces two counts of criminal sexual contact of a minor and one count of child abuse.
The U.S. Marshals are now assisting local police in locating and apprehending him.
When asked whether Busfield had been found, detained, or arrested, an Albuquerque Police Department spokesperson told People, “Not that I am aware.”
How the Allegations Came to Light
Investigators say the claims first surfaced in November 2024 when staff at the University of New Mexico Hospital contacted police, reporting that twin 11-year-old boys might have been groomed while working on The Cleaning Lady, a show Busfield directed.
According to court documents filed in Bernalillo County Metropolitan Court, the alleged abuse spanned from November 2022 through spring 2024.
A law enforcement affidavit paints a concerning picture: Busfield reportedly encouraged the boys to call him “Uncle Tim,” bought them Christmas gifts alongside his wife, actress Melissa Gilbert, and allegedly tickled them on the stomach and legs, even though the children expressed discomfort.
Alleged Abuse Revealed Years Later
While no sexual touching was reported initially, one of the parents came forward in October 2025, alerting Child Protective Services after her child disclosed alleged sexual abuse.
The complaint details that one child actor claimed Busfield first touched his private areas multiple times at age seven, then again the following year.
The boy said he was afraid to tell anyone because he feared the director would get angry.
Investigators interviewed the children’s therapists and doctors, revealing troubling effects on the victims.
One child, diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder and anxiety, experienced nightmares and ongoing behavioral issues, including bed-wetting, tied to alleged incidents involving Busfield on set.
Warner Bros’ Investigation and Evidence
Warner Bros reportedly began its own investigation after an anonymous tip was submitted through the SAG-AFTRA hotline in February 2025 regarding an incident from December 2024.
While the studio stated it did not find evidence to substantiate the claims, the criminal complaint includes more serious allegations.
For instance, Busfield allegedly kissed a minor on the face while he was in the hair and makeup trailer and there are purported photographs of him “tickling and caressing” boys on set.
When questioned, Busfield allegedly suggested the parents were seeking “revenge” because their children were not invited back for the show’s final season.
He reportedly admitted to investigators that he didn’t recall overtly tickling the children, but “it wouldn’t be uncommon for me.”
Studios Respond to Allegations
Both Fox and Warner Bros released a joint statement emphasizing the safety of cast and crew, particularly minors.
“The health and safety of our cast and crew is always our top priority, especially the safety of minors on our productions,” the statement said.
They added that all allegations of misconduct are taken seriously, investigated promptly, and that they are cooperating fully with law enforcement regarding the charges against Busfield.
Melissa Gilbert’s Response and Social Media Silence
Busfield’s wife, Little House on the Prairie star Melissa Gilbert, has seemingly deleted her social media accounts.
A link to her Instagram now shows an error message: “Profile isn’t available.”
This is notable because back in November, Gilbert openly shared her own experiences with inappropriate behavior on film sets.
She responded to comments by Megyn Kelly about Jeffrey Epstein, recounting being asked to film romantic scenes with Dean Butler, who was nine years older than her at the time.
She wrote, “Through the lens of today, this is shocking. I have no words other than to say, ‘I WAS A CHILD.’”
Gilbert reflected on the importance of having family support during that period and highlighted that many other young women were not as fortunate.
What’s Next
As of now, authorities are continuing their search for Busfield, and the legal process in New Mexico is moving forward.
Meanwhile, the entertainment industry and fans alike are closely watching how both the investigation and the studio responses unfold.
Share on Facebook «||» Share on Twitter «||» Share on Reddit «||» Share on LinkedIn