Actor Timothy Busfield Pleads Not Guilty to Felony Child Sex Abuse Charges

Busfield faces 4 counts of criminal sexual contact of a minor from alleged incidents on the set of "The Cleaning Lady"

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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Actor and director Timothy Busfield has pleaded not guilty to four felony counts of criminal sexual contact of a minor. The alleged incidents reportedly happened to twin brothers on the set of "The Cleaning Lady" between 2022 and 2024, when the children were 7 and 8 years old. Busfield admitted it was "highly likely" he touched the children, describing the set as a "playful environment."

Why it matters

Child sexual abuse allegations against high-profile figures in the entertainment industry have become increasingly common in recent years, raising concerns about the industry's culture and accountability. This case highlights the need for stronger safeguards and oversight to protect young actors on film sets.

The details

Busfield pleaded not guilty on February 10, following testimony before a grand jury in Bernalillo County, Arizona, on February 6. He's facing four felony counts of criminal sexual contact of a minor. On Wednesday, Judge Joseph Montano granted Busfield's request to waive his arraignment and appearances in court for all pretrial proceedings. A scheduling conference has been set for March 10.

  • On February 10, Busfield pleaded not guilty to the charges.
  • On February 6, Busfield testified before a grand jury in Bernalillo County, Arizona.
  • In October 2025, the children's mother filed a police report about the alleged abuse.

The players

Timothy Busfield

An actor and director who has been charged with four felony counts of criminal sexual contact of a minor.

Judge Joseph Montano

The judge who granted Busfield's request to waive his arraignment and appearances in court for all pretrial proceedings.

The twin brothers

The two young actors who allegedly were abused by Busfield on the set of "The Cleaning Lady" between 2022 and 2024.

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What they’re saying

“It was 'highly likely' that he would have touched the children on that particular set, as it was a 'playful environment'.”

— Timothy Busfield (Albuquerque police)

What’s next

A scheduling conference has been set for March 10, where Busfield's legal representatives are confirmed to be in attendance.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing issue of child sexual abuse allegations in the entertainment industry and the need for stronger safeguards and oversight to protect young actors on film sets. It also underscores the importance of thorough investigations and due process in such sensitive cases.