Melissa Gilbert has opened up about the emotional toll of her husband Timothy Busfield’s recent time in jail. The Little House on the Prairie alum was “sick with worry” while Busfield, 68, spent a week in custody following his arrest on child sex abuse charges.
Arrest and Charges
On January 13, Busfield surrendered to authorities in New Mexico after an arrest warrant was issued by the Albuquerque Police Department. He was charged with two counts of criminal sexual contact of a minor under 13 and one count of child abuse. The allegations involve twin 11-year-old boys whom Busfield met while directing episodes of FOX’s The Cleaning Lady. The charges shocked fans of the Emmy-winning actor, best known for his roles in The West Wing and Thirtysomething. Busfield has strongly denied the allegations, calling them “all lies” in a video statement before turning himself in. He vowed to fight the charges with a legal team, insisting he would be exonerated.
Gilbert’s Emotional Support
Gilbert, 61, has stood firmly by her husband’s side. According to a source, she was deeply distressed during his week-long detention, fearing for his safety. “Melissa has been sick with worry that something would happen to him in jail,” the insider told PEOPLE. When Busfield was released on January 20 pending trial, Gilbert whispered “Thank you, God” in court. She has pledged to attend every hearing and continues to believe in his innocence.
Letters of Support
Ahead of the pretrial detention hearing, Gilbert was one of 75 people who wrote letters to the judge in support of Busfield. In her letter, she described him as “my love, my rock, my partner in business and life,” and asked the court to ensure his safety while incarcerated. “I only want this extraordinary man safe and whole,” she wrote. “As he is my protector, I am his, but I cannot protect him now.”
Gilbert’s representative also issued a statement affirming her support, saying, “Melissa stands with and supports her husband.”
Relief After Release
Busfield was released on his own recognizance on January 20. His lawyer, Larry Stein, said the couple is still in shock but relieved. “We’re taking one day at a time,” Stein told PEOPLE. Gilbert expressed gratitude for the friends and supporters who have rallied around them during the ordeal.
What’s Next
Busfield now awaits trial, with Gilbert pledging to remain by his side. While the case continues, the couple is focused on preparing their defense and coping with the emotional strain. The allegations mark a difficult chapter for the longtime Hollywood couple, who married in 2013. Gilbert has described Busfield as her “protector,” and her unwavering support highlights the personal toll of high-profile legal battles.
