At a Glance
- Melissa Gilbert‘s husband, Timothy Busfield, is charged with child sex abuse in New Mexico.
- Busfield, 68, was released from custody on Jan. 20 after a warrant was issued a week earlier.
- Modern Prairie, the brand Gilbert founded, issued a statement of support on Jan. 22.
- Why it matters: The case puts a beloved actress and her business under intense public scrutiny.
Melissa Gilbert, the star of Little House on the Prairie, has been in the spotlight for decades. Her husband, Timothy Busfield, is now facing serious legal allegations that could reshape her personal life and the future of her clothing brand.
Legal Proceedings and Charges
Busfield, 68, was formally charged on Jan. 13 with two counts of criminal sexual contact of a minor (child under 13) and one count of child abuse. The charges stem from allegations involving twin 11-year-old boys, as well as a separate claim that Busfield abused a 16-year-old daughter of Colin Swift in Sacramento years ago. A warrant for Busfield’s arrest was issued by the Albuquerque Police Department on Jan. 9, and he surrendered to police on Jan. 13.
On Jan. 20, a pretrial detention hearing took place at the Second District Judicial Court in Bernalillo County. The judge ruled that Busfield would be released from custody pending trial. Gilbert, 61, was present in the courtroom and was seen crying as the judge announced the decision.
Key Allegations
- Two counts of criminal sexual contact with a minor under 13.
- One count of child abuse.
- Alleged sexual abuse of a 16-year-old daughter.
- Alleged unlawful sexual conduct with twin 11-year-old boys.
Busfield’s civil attorney, Larry Stein, denied all allegations. In an interview on Jan. 13, Stein said, “He’s absolutely shocked. He’s devastated and will defend himself, because these are absolutely false allegations.” He added that the allegations were “never challenged, never proved, and they’re 25 years old.”
Family and Brand Response
Modern Prairie, the lifestyle brand Gilbert founded, issued a statement on Jan. 22. Founder and CEO Nicole Haase posted on Instagram, thanking supporters and clarifying that the allegations are a personal matter that “do not directly involve Melissa or the brand.” Haase emphasized that Melissa remains the Chief Creative Officer and that her creative voice is integral to Modern Prairie’s identity.
> “We want to thank everyone who has reached out with notes of care, kindness, and support. We’ve felt them, and Melissa has too 🤍,” Haase wrote. “Many of you are used to seeing Melissa regularly in our feed, and we understand why her absence has prompted concern.”
> “At this moment, we’re choosing to honor Melissa’s need for privacy. Supporting someone doesn’t always mean showing up loudly-it often means holding space with respect and compassion.”
Haase continued, “What we can share, and want to be very clear about, is this: Melissa is, and will continue to be, an essential part of Modern Prairie as our Chief Creative Officer. Her creative voice and heart are deeply woven into who we are and what we create-and that does not change.”
She thanked customers for their “patience” and “grace,” reaffirming the brand’s commitment to kindness, dignity, and the belief that women deserve to feel seen, supported, and celebrated.
Timeline of Events
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| Jan. 9 | Arrest warrant issued for Busfield by Albuquerque Police Department. |
| Jan. 13 | Busfield formally charged with two counts of criminal sexual contact and one count of child abuse; he surrenders to police. |
| Jan. 13 | Colin Swift reports alleged abuse of his 16-year-old daughter. |
| Jan. 20 | Pretrial detention hearing; judge releases Busfield from custody pending trial. |
| Jan. 22 | Modern Prairie releases statement supporting Melissa and clarifying brand’s position. |
Legal Representation and Public Statements
Busfield’s civil attorney, Larry Stein, has been vocal in denying the charges. He described the allegations as “absolutely false” and highlighted the lack of evidence. Stein also noted that the allegations span a period of 25 years and that there is no connection between the older accusations and the current case.
Melissa Gilbert’s representative, Ame Van Iden, issued a statement on Jan. 13 that clarified Gilbert would not speak publicly while the legal process unfolds. The statement emphasized the couple’s focus on supporting their large family and requested privacy.
During the pretrial hearing, Gilbert was visibly emotional, underscoring the personal toll the case has taken on her. Despite the gravity of the situation, she has maintained her role within Modern Prairie and continues to collaborate with the brand’s team.
Community Support and Resources
The case has prompted a wave of messages of support for Gilbert from fans and colleagues. Modern Prairie’s statement highlighted the importance of kindness and compassion during difficult times.
For those who suspect child abuse, the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline is available 24/7. Calls can be made toll-free at 1-800-4-A-CHILD or 1-800-422-4453, and the hotline offers services in more than 170 languages.
Key Takeaways
- Timothy Busfield, 68, faces multiple child sex abuse charges in New Mexico.
- He was released from custody on Jan. 20 pending trial after a warrant issued on Jan. 9.
- Modern Prairie’s founder Nicole Haase reaffirmed Melissa’s role and the brand’s commitment to privacy and support.
- Busfield’s attorney denies the allegations, citing lack of evidence and the age of the claims.
- The case underscores the intersection of personal scandal and public business, prompting widespread support and calls for privacy.
Why it matters: The outcome of this case will impact not only Melissa Gilbert’s personal life but also the future of Modern Prairie, a brand that has become a staple in women’s fashion.
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