Federal authorities have joined local law enforcement in an expanding search for actor and director Timothy Busfield, after an arrest warrant was issued in New Mexico charging him with multiple offenses involving a minor. The U.S. Marshals Service confirmed it is assisting the Albuquerque Police Department in locating Busfield, whose whereabouts remain unknown days after the warrant was issued.
Busfield, 68, is charged with two counts of criminal sexual contact with a minor and one open count of child abuse. The charges stem from an investigation initiated following reports to authorities alleging inappropriate conduct involving child actors. According to law enforcement summaries, the allegations involve two minors who were twins and worked on a television production in which Busfield had a professional role. Investigators indicate the reported conduct spans multiple years, with some allegations dating back to when one of the children was significantly younger.
The case began after medical personnel raised concerns that prompted mandatory reporting, leading to a formal police investigation. Detectives later interviewed the children and their parents, as well as reviewed records and statements associated with the production. Prosecutors subsequently sought an arrest warrant after determining there was sufficient probable cause to move forward with criminal charges.
When officers attempted to serve the warrant, Busfield could not be located. With no confirmed contact and limited information about his current location, authorities requested assistance from the U.S. Marshals Service, which specializes in locating fugitives and individuals avoiding arrest across state lines. Officials have not publicly indicated whether Busfield is believed to have left New Mexico, but they have stated the search remains active and ongoing.
Busfield is widely known for his work in film and television, including a prominent role as journalist Danny Concannon on the HBO political drama The West Wing. His career spans several decades and includes acting, directing, and producing credits across network and cable television, as well as feature films.
In response to the allegations, television networks and studios connected to past projects have taken precautionary steps. At least one network has removed an episode of a long-running crime drama from circulation that featured Busfield in a guest appearance, citing sensitivity to the nature of the charges. Production companies associated with the series connected to the investigation have stated they are cooperating fully with law enforcement and reviewing internal safety protocols involving minors on set.
Court records indicate that one of the alleged victims has received ongoing counseling and mental health support, with professionals documenting trauma-related symptoms. The case file includes assessments from social workers and medical providers that were provided to investigators as part of the criminal complaint.
Busfield has not appeared in court to respond to the charges, and no arraignment date has been set. Through prior statements referenced in court filings, he has denied wrongdoing. Under the law, he is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
Authorities are urging anyone with information regarding Busfield’s location to contact law enforcement. As the search continues, prosecutors have indicated that additional court proceedings will move forward once he is taken into custody.