Timothy Busfield Faces Child Sex Abuse Allegations from Past Accusers

Prosecutors plan to call multiple witnesses who have previously accused the actor of sexual misconduct.

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Timothy Busfield, known for his role on 'The West Wing,' is facing a child sex abuse trial in New Mexico. Prosecutors have signaled that they plan to call several people who have previously accused Busfield of sexual assault, including a woman who claims he sexually assaulted her when she was 16 years old auditioning for his theater company. The other alleged incidents date back to the 1990s and early 2000s. Busfield has denied the latest allegations, claiming the children's parents are trying to get back at him after they were cut from the show he was working on.

Why it matters

The inclusion of past accusers in the trial could lend more credibility to the current allegations against Busfield and demonstrate a pattern of predatory behavior. However, the defense may argue that the past allegations are unsubstantiated or irrelevant to the current case. This case highlights the challenges of prosecuting high-profile figures for sexual misconduct, especially when the alleged incidents occurred years or decades in the past.

The details

According to legal documents obtained by TMZ, the witness list for Busfield's upcoming trial includes four people who have previously accused him of sexual misconduct. One witness claims Busfield sexually assaulted her when she was 16 years old and auditioning for him at his theater company in Sacramento, California. Prosecutors say her father will also testify. Another three witnesses stem from alleged incidents in 2000, 1993, and 1991. Additionally, a woman is expected to testify about an encounter with Busfield in which he was aggressive and made sexual comments.

  • The alleged incident with the 16-year-old occurred about 25 years ago.
  • The other alleged incidents date back to 2000, 1993, and 1991.

The players

Timothy Busfield

An actor known for his role on the TV series 'The West Wing,' who is facing a child sex abuse trial in New Mexico.

Sam Bregman

The Bernalillo County District Attorney who charged Busfield with four counts of Criminal Sexual Contact of a Child.

B Street Theatre

A theater company founded by Busfield, where one of the alleged incidents of sexual assault is said to have occurred.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.