Judge Orders Release of Actor Timothy Busfield as Case Proceeds

Emmy-winning actor Timothy Busfield has been released from custody in New Mexico while awaiting trial, marking a significant development in a case that has drawn national attention. The 68-year-old actor, known for roles in The West Wing, Thirtysomething, and Field of Dreams, spent several days in jail before a judge ruled that he could remain free as the legal process continues.

Busfield voluntarily surrendered to authorities in Albuquerque in mid-January 2026 after a warrant was issued for his arrest. Prosecutors allege that incidents involving inappropriate conduct occurred during the time he was directing episodes of the FOX series The Cleaning Lady, which was filmed in New Mexico. The allegations involve two young individuals connected to the production. According to court documents, one of them reported repeated inappropriate contact over clothing at a much earlier age. The second individual also reported contact but said he did not come forward sooner due to fear of getting into trouble.

Busfield was charged with multiple felony counts under New Mexico law related to these allegations.

After turning himself in, he was booked into the Bernalillo County Metropolitan Detention Center and appeared for his initial court hearing via video. At that time, a judge ordered him held without bond, citing the seriousness of the charges and arguments from prosecutors regarding public safety. Images from the hearing showed Busfield in jail attire and restraints.

Several days later, during a detention hearing, Judge David Murphy ruled that prosecutors had not demonstrated that Busfield posed a danger to the community if released. The judge also noted that there was no evidence of prior similar criminal conduct. Busfield was released on his own recognizance, meaning he did not have to post bail, but he must comply with strict conditions. These include appearing at all court proceedings, avoiding unsupervised contact with young people, abstaining from alcohol and illegal substances, surrendering any weapons, avoiding contact with those involved in the case, and complying with supervision by pretrial services.

Defense attorneys emphasized that Busfield voluntarily surrendered, has no prior criminal record, and denies all allegations. They also stressed the legal principle that an accused person is presumed innocent unless proven otherwise.

Following his release, Busfield was seen leaving the detention facility and returning to daily life while staying with family in Albuquerque. His wife, actress Melissa Gilbert, was present in court for the release hearing and was visibly emotional as the judge issued the ruling. She has remained supportive throughout the proceedings.

Ahead of the hearing, Gilbert submitted a letter to the court describing Busfield as a supportive partner and asking that his safety be taken into consideration. A representative later stated that she would not make further public comments while the case is ongoing.

As part of the court process, Busfield also underwent a court-ordered behavioral evaluation earlier in January. Such evaluations are commonly used to assist courts in assessing risk and background factors. Media reports indicate that the evaluation included questions about his personal life and marriage, with both Busfield and Gilbert describing their relationship as stable and supportive.

Separately, an unrelated allegation from California surfaced in court filings, involving a claim from decades ago. A theater organization confirmed it reviewed the matter internally and barred Busfield from future involvement. His legal team has denied the allegation and stated it is unrelated to the New Mexico case.

Busfield has consistently denied all claims. Shortly before surrendering to authorities, he released a video statement saying he was devastated by the accusations and intended to fight them in court. His attorneys have challenged the prosecution’s case, pointing to studio reviews and early interviews that they say did not support the allegations.

The case has already affected Busfield’s career, with some television appearances reportedly removed or edited amid the ongoing legal proceedings.

Busfield is scheduled to appear at a preliminary hearing, where a judge will determine whether sufficient evidence exists for the case to proceed to trial. The case is expected to continue drawing attention due to his public profile.

Under U.S. law, all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.