‘West Wing’ Actor Timothy Busfield Faces Shocking New Sexual Abuse Allegation Involving 16-Year-Old Girl
Timothy Busfield’s New Sexual Abuse Allegation: What We Know So Far
Timothy Busfield, the veteran actor famed for his role in the acclaimed television series ‘West Wing,’ is currently embroiled in a disturbing new sexual abuse allegation. Prosecutors in Bernalillo County, New Mexico, have filed a motion revealing that Busfield allegedly sexually abused a 16-year-old girl several years ago in Sacramento, California. This accusation marks the third alleged victim to come forward against the 68-year-old actor.
The motion, filed on January 14, 2026, was submitted to request pretrial detention and was obtained by media outlets. According to the documents, the girl’s father, Colin Swift, reported the incident to investigators on January 13. Despite the gravity of the allegation, Busfield has not been formally charged in connection with this specific claim.
This new development comes on the heels of Busfield surrendering to the Albuquerque Police Department after being charged with two counts of criminal sexual contact of a minor and one count of child abuse. The actor has consistently denied all allegations against him.
Details Surrounding the Alleged Incident
The motion details that the alleged abuse occurred while the 16-year-old was auditioning for Busfield at the B Street Theatre in Sacramento, a venue Busfield founded in 1986 originally under the name Theatre for Children. The girl reportedly stated that Busfield kissed her and inappropriately touched her private areas during the audition process.
Further complicating the case, the motion alleges that Busfield begged the family not to report the incident to law enforcement, suggesting that if he received therapy, the matter could be resolved privately. Colin Swift, who is a therapist himself, agreed that reporting the incident was the best course of action.
Busfield’s legal team has not publicly commented on this specific allegation, but the actor has denied all claims of sexual misconduct in related cases.
Background: Previous Allegations and Legal Proceedings
This latest accusation is part of a broader investigation into Busfield’s conduct. Earlier, authorities in New Mexico issued a warrant for his arrest on January 9, 2026, related to allegations of unlawful sexual conduct involving twin boys aged seven, who appeared on the Fox show “The Cleaning Lady,” which Busfield executive produced.
The alleged abuse reportedly took place during filming in New Mexico in 2022. According to court documents, Busfield is accused of inappropriate touching multiple times. The investigation only began in November 2024 after a physician at the University of New Mexico Hospital reported suspected sexual abuse and grooming.
Busfield admitted in a police interview that it was “highly likely” he touched the children but claimed there were no clear rules about physical contact on set. He described the environment as “playful” and insisted that any contact was innocent and always in front of parents.
Busfield’s Response and Current Status
Following his surrender to authorities, Busfield’s lawyer released a video statement in which the actor vehemently denied all allegations. He stated, “I did not do anything to those little boys. These accusations are all lies.” Busfield expressed his intent to fight the charges vigorously and declared his confidence in being exonerated.
Despite his denial, federal agents conducted a raid on Busfield’s home in upstate New York shortly after his surrender. He is currently being held at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Albuquerque as prosecutors seek to keep him in custody pending trial.
Busfield’s wife, actress Melissa Gilbert, has publicly stood by her husband, emphasizing her focus on supporting their family during this difficult time. She is not implicated in any wrongdoing.
Conclusion: Ongoing Investigation and What to Expect Next
The sexual abuse allegations against Timothy Busfield, including the shocking new claim involving a 16-year-old girl, have sent ripples through the entertainment industry and the public alike. As the legal process unfolds, it is crucial to follow credible updates and respect the privacy of all parties involved.
If you or someone you know is affected by sexual abuse, it is important to seek help from professional support organizations. Stay tuned for further developments in this case, as more information is expected to emerge in the coming months.
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