Actor Timothy Busfield has filed key documents in his defense after being formally charged in a child sex abuse case in New Mexico. The thirtysomething star submitted a list of 13 “potential witnesses” ahead of his pretrial detention hearing scheduled for January 20. Among those named is his wife, actress Melissa Gilbert, best known for her role as Laura Ingalls Wilder on NBC’s Little House on the Prairie. Gilbert has now publicly expressed support for her husband, writing a character letter on his behalf.
Melissa Gilbert’s Character Letter
Gilbert’s letter praised Busfield’s integrity and values, describing him as “extraordinary” and guided by honor and compassion. “I will never be able to express the depth of gratitude I have to God for bringing this wonderful human into our lives,” she wrote. Gilbert acknowledged the difficulty of writing such a letter, noting she was torn between logic and emotion, but emphasized her desire to see her husband “safe and whole.”
Cast and Crew Named
Busfield’s legal team also listed several members of The Cleaning Lady cast and crew as potential witnesses. The Fox drama series, where Busfield directed six episodes and executive produced 14 between 2022 and 2025, is alleged to be the setting of the misconduct. Names included hairstylists Kristin Karr and Danielle Vigil, cinematographer Alan Caudillo, and actress Debra Toner.
Charges and Denials
Busfield faces two counts of criminal sexual contact of a minor and one open count of child abuse. The charges stem from an investigation into his interactions with child actors on the series. Earlier this week, Busfield released a video statement before turning himself in to authorities, vehemently denying the accusations. “I’m going to confront these lies,” he said. “They are horrible. They are all lies, and I did not do anything to those little boys.”
Filing Details
In his Friday filing, Busfield argued that the accusers lacked credibility and had financial motives. He claimed the allegations came from “stage parents” whose children were recast from The Cleaning Lady in 2024. His legal team suggested the accusations were retaliatory and financially driven, citing the parents’ alleged history of dishonesty.
Busfield also submitted results from a polygraph test, which reportedly found him “truthful” when denying inappropriate conduct. Additionally, his defense included 75 letters from colleagues, friends, and family members attesting to his professionalism and character.
What’s Next
The pretrial detention hearing on January 20 will determine whether Busfield remains in custody while awaiting trial. With Gilbert and industry colleagues standing by him, the case is set to draw significant attention as it unfolds.
