'West Wing' actor Timothy Busfield faces criminal charges over alleged contact with a minor

Timothy Busfield has been charged with two counts of criminal sexual contact of a minor and one count of child abuse, and authorities say the case is under investigation.

Timothy Busfield, an actor and director known for his role on "The West Wing," is facing criminal charges in New Mexico, according to an arrest warrant and a criminal complaint reported by ABC News. The complaint alleges inappropriate sexual contact involving a child actor on the set of the series "The Cleaning Lady." Investigators say the inquiry began in November 2024 after a hospital physician reported suspected sexual abuse, and parents later reported allegations dating to 2022. Busfield has denied the allegations and it was not immediately clear whether he is in custody. Known details: - The arrest warrant filed by the Albuquerque Police Department lists two counts of criminal sexual contact of a minor and one count of child abuse. - Authorities say the alleged incidents involved a child actor on the set of the television series "The Cleaning Lady." - Investigators say the probe began in November 2024 after a physician at the University of New Mexico Hospital reported suspected sexual abuse; parents later reported alleged incidents dating back to 2022. - The criminal complaint notes Busfield denied the allegations; court records for any initial appearance or bond conditions were not immediately available and the case remains under investigation. Summary: The charges reported mark the opening of a criminal investigation into alleged conduct involving a minor on a television set. Undetermined at this time.