At a Glance
- Actor Timothy Busfield ordered to pay $150,000 in 1996 sexual assault case
- New allegations involve unlawful sexual conduct with two 11-year-old boys
- Arrest warrant issued January 9, 2025
- Why it matters: Busfield has faced multiple sexual assault accusations spanning decades
Actor Timothy Busfield, known for his roles in The West Wing and Thirtysomething, faces new criminal charges amid revelations of past legal troubles.
The 1996 Case
In 1996, Busfield claimed a Minneapolis law firm fabricated sexual assault charges against him. A judge rejected his claim and ordered him to pay $150,000 to the firm for defending itself in Busfield’s defamation suit.

The underlying case involved a 17-year-old extra from Little Big League who accused Busfield of assault. Busfield settled with the girl for an undisclosed amount.
Current Allegations
Albuquerque police issued an arrest warrant January 9, 2025, alleging Busfield engaged in unlawful sexual conduct with two 11-year-old boys.
The victims reportedly met Busfield on The Cleaning Lady set where he directed. One victim alleges incidents began when he was 7 years old.
Investigation Timeline
November 1, 2024: Investigation began after UNMH doctor alerted police
December 2024: Police gathered evidence from victims and parents
January 9, 2025: Arrest warrant issued
Key Takeaways
- Busfield faces two counts criminal sexual contact of minor
- One count child abuse
- Past allegations span 1990s to present
- No charges filed in previous incidents
- Warner Bros. cooperating with authorities
The Cleaning Lady ran January 2022 to June 2025.

