US Marshals join search for actor wanted on child sex abuse charges

U.S. Marshals Join Search for Timothy Busfield

The U.S. Marshals have joined the search for actor and director Timothy Busfield. He allegedly admitted that it’s “highly likely” children were touched on the set of “The Cleaning Lady” in New Mexico.

Arrest Warrant Issued

Authorities issued an arrest warrant on January 9 for Busfield. He is accused of inappropriately touching two children.

Details of the Allegations

Busfield is known for his role in “The West Wing.” He was the director and an actor in “The Cleaning Lady.” The allegations involve touching two boys, ages 7 and 8 at the time, on numerous occasions, according to a criminal complaint.

One child alleged that Busfield touched him in his private area.

Timeline of Alleged Abuse

The abuse reportedly happened between 2022 and 2024. Warner Bros. conducted its own investigation and found no evidence of inappropriate behavior by Busfield.

Busfield’s Admission

During questioning with Albuquerque police, Busfield admitted that it was “highly likely” he touched the children on set, describing it as a “playful environment,” according to US Weekly.

“I mean, I’m always around people, right? It would be, you know, in front of the parents. There would never be a weird moment about it,” Busfield told police during a November 2025 interview.

Mother’s Reaction

Busfield also claimed that the mother of one child became upset when she learned her son would not return for the show’s final season.

Search Efforts

After a judge issued an arrest warrant, the U.S. Marshals joined the search on January 13. “Albuquerque Police Department is working with the U.S. Marshal Service to get Mr. Busfield into custody,” said APD spokesperson Gilbert Gallegos to FOX News Digital.

Charges Against Busfield

Busfield faces charges of child abuse and two counts of sexual contact with a minor. His wife, actress Melissa Gilbert, has since deleted her Instagram account.

Impact on Victims

The affidavit stated that one victim experienced bed-wetting incidents and other behavior issues after the alleged abuse. He also suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder related to “about the director touching him,” according to the Los Angeles Times.