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Archived story · published October 16, 2026. Coverage reflects reporting at the time. See today's brief

Politics · October 16, 2026

New Mexico judge dismisses child sexual abuse claims against actor Timothy Busfield

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A New Mexico state court judge has dismissed child sexual abuse charges against actor Timothy Busfield, citing prosecutorial misconduct during grand jury proceedings. Busfield, known for his work on 'The West Wing' and 'Thirtysomething', was indicted in February 2026 on four counts involving two boys on the set of 'The Cleaning Lady'. Judge Joseph Montano ruled that the prosecution failed to act in a fair and impartial manner by incorrectly instructing the grand jury on how to request additional witnesses, effectively withholding evidence. The dismissal was made without prejudice, allowing the district attorney to potentially seek a new indictment in the future.

Read the original coverage

Reported across the spectrum

  • Judge Joseph Montano dismissed the four-count grand jury indictment against Timothy Busfield.
  • The charges stemmed from allegations of inappropriate contact with two children on the set of 'The Cleaning Lady' in Albuquerque.
  • The judge ruled the prosecution failed to act in a fair and impartial manner.
  • The dismissal was based on the prosecution's failure to properly instruct the grand jury on witness request procedures.
  • Prosecutors have the option to pursue new charges or a new indictment in the future.
  • Busfield has consistently denied the allegations.

Reported by only some outlets

  • The alleged victims are twin brothers who were aged seven and eight at the time.
  • The alleged contact occurred over a two-year period during production breaks.
  • The prosecutor incorrectly told grand jurors that at least eight of them had to agree to hear from a witness.
  • Busfield's attorney, Amber Fayerberg, stated the actor was 'relieved and grateful' following the ruling.

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