Warrant Issued for ‘West Wing’ Actor Timothy Busfield on Child Sex Abuse Charges
January 10, 2026 – Albuquerque, New Mexico: Authorities in New Mexico have issued an arrest warrant for Emmy-winning actor and director Timothy Busfield, best known for his role as Danny Concannon on The West Wing, on serious child sex abuse charges.
The warrant, issued by the Albuquerque Police Department, stems from allegations that Busfield engaged in criminal sexual contact of a minor and child abuse involving two children who worked as actors on the television series The Cleaning Lady, which Busfield directed and acted in.
Details of the Allegations
According to court documents and criminal complaints obtained by law enforcement:
- The investigation began after a doctor at the University of New Mexico Hospital reported concerns of potential abuse in November 2024.
- The children, identified as twin boys who were approximately 11 years old at the time of reporting, initially met Busfield on the set of The Cleaning Lady—a FOX series that filmed in New Mexico from 2022 to 2025.
- One of the children alleged that inappropriate touching occurred as early as age 7, with multiple instances reported between ages 7 and 8.
- The alleged actions included inappropriate contact while on set and under circumstances the criminal complaint described as “grooming behaviors.”
- According to reports, the children’s therapist diagnosed one of the minors with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and anxiety related to the alleged events.
Busfield has denied the allegations, and as of the latest reports, it was unclear whether he had been formally booked or taken into custody.
Reaction from Productions and Representatives
Studio representatives for The Cleaning Lady and Warner Bros., which produced the series, stated that the safety of cast and crew—especially minors—remains a top priority. They noted that they reviewed the claims and cooperated with law enforcement during the investigation.
There has been no official public comment from Busfield’s legal team or his representatives at the time of writing.
Timothy Busfield: Career and Public Profile
Timothy Busfield, 68, boasts a long and varied career in film and television:
- He earned critical acclaim and a Primetime Emmy Award for his role as Elliot Weston on Thirtysomething.
- Busfield’s acting credits span decades, including roles in The West Wing, Field of Dreams, Revenge of the Nerds, and numerous television guest appearances.
- He has also directed multiple television episodes and served as a producer on several projects.
Busfield has been married to actress Melissa Gilbert since 2013 and has three children from previous relationships.
Ongoing Investigation and Community Impact
Child abuse allegations—especially involving high-profile individuals—spark significant public concern and media attention. This case remains active and will likely evolve as legal proceedings unfold.
The Albuquerque Police Department and district attorney’s office have not released further details beyond the charges and warrant. Legal experts note that arrest warrants reflect probable cause, not guilt, and Busfield is presumed innocent until proven otherwise in a court of law.
For support or to report abuse:
If you or someone you know is affected by child abuse or sexual misconduct, contact local law enforcement or appropriate support hotlines in your region.
