UPDATE — 1/21/26 1:45 a.m. ET: Timothy Busfield was released from police custody as he awaits trial on alleged child sex abuse charges.
Per police records obtained by Us Weekly in the early hours of Wednesday, January 21, Busfield was released the previous day.
A report by People, published in light of the news, included a statement from Busfield’s civil attorney, Larry Stein, that described Busfield as feeling “wonderful” after his release. “He can reunite with Melissa [Gilbert, his wife],” Stein told the outlet, noting that Gilbert is “very, very excited.”
Original story below.
Timothy Busfield will be released from jail as he awaits his trial for alleged child sex abuse.
A New Mexico judge denied the state’s motion to keep Busfield, 68, in custody leading up to and during his trial during a Tuesday, January 20, hearing. The judge ruled that the state could not adequately prove that there are zero conditions in which the director could be released that would protect the safety of the community.
Busfield’s release from jail does, however, come with a few conditions. The director must appear at all hearings and maintain contact with his attorney. He may not be in the possession of a firearm and he cannot have any contact with the alleged victims. The judge did not revoke Busfield’s ability to travel. Busfield’s next court hearing has yet to be scheduled.
After the ruling was issued, Busfield turned to wife Melissa Gilbert. He seemingly attempted to place his hand over his heart in a potential gesture toward Gilbert, 61, but could not do so due to the restraints from his handcuffs. Busfield was subsequently escorted out of the court room.
Timothy Busfield Does Not Enter Plea in Child Sex Abuse Case
News broke earlier this month that a warrant was issued for Busfield’s arrest after he was accused of sexual abuse by twin child actors who worked on The Cleaning Lady. The drama aired from 2022 to 2025 and Busfield executive-produced 14 episodes of the Fox series, directed six and made a one-episode appearance.
The alleged incidents took place between late 2022 and early 2024, according to the Albuquerque Police Department affidavit obtained by Us Weekly in January. Busfield was accused of touching one of the children’s “private areas,” tickling the children, picking up the children and more.
Busfield is facing two counts of sexual abuse involving a minor and one count of child abuse. He faces up to 15 years in prison if convicted, per the Bernalillo County District Attorney’s Office.
In an interview with the authorities, Busfield denied the abuse allegations and claimed that there was nothing “weird” about his interactions with the child actors.
“I mean, I’m always around people, right? It would be, you know, in front of the parents. There would never be a weird moment about it,” he said. “I don’t really remember picking those boys up. I remember picking up the boy who followed them. I’d pick him up and he’d be giggling and that would sort of get him ready to act.”
Busfield claimed the children were “never alone on set without the teacher, a welfare worker, or a parent.” He also admitted to him and Gilbert buying the children presents for Christmas.
After news broke of the allegations, Busfield surrendered himself to the police while maintaining his innocence.
Melissa Gilbert Spotted at Husband Timothy Busfield’s Court Hearing
“I did not do anything to those little boys,” Busfield claimed in a video obtained by TMZ. “And I’m gonna fight it. I’m gonna fight it with a great team, and I’m gonna be exonerated. I know I am, ‘cause this is all so wrong and so lies.”
Gilbert attended the Tuesday hearing in support of her husband. The actress was also listed on the case’s witness list. In addition to being by Busfield’s side, Gilbert previously released a statement maintaining her husband’s innocence.
“During this period, her focus is on supporting and caring for their very large family, as they navigate this moment,” Gilbert’s rep said. “Melissa stands with and supports her husband and will address the public at an appropriate time.”
If you or someone you know is experiencing child abuse, call or text Child Help Hotline at 1-800-422-4453.
If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted, contact the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673).
