A New Mexico judge has dismissed child sex abuse charges against Timothy Busfield. Timothy Busfield is best known for playing Elliot Weston on the ABC television series 30+. But the ruling, which cited prosecutorial misconduct, did not prevent prosecutors from bringing new charges against the actor.
State District Judge Joseph Montano ruled Friday that prosecutors compromised the integrity of the proceedings by improperly preventing grand jurors from hearing testimony from witnesses they requested.
“Prosecutors failed to act in a fair and impartial manner,” Montano wrote, finding that the state’s actions effectively prevented grand jury witnesses from appearing.
Bousfield, 69, was charged in February with four counts of sexual contact with a minor. The charges stem from the Fox drama “The Cleaning Lady,” which he directed, in which he was accused of inappropriately touching a young actor on the set between 2022 and 2024.
The actor-director, also known for his performances in “The West Wing” and “Field of Dreams,” has always denied the accusations and has pleaded not guilty.
Although the indictment was dismissed, Montano clearly left the door open for prosecution again. The Bernalillo County District Attorney’s Office said it is evaluating its options.
Bousfield’s attorney, Amber Fayerberg, said her client was “relieved and grateful” but acknowledged the legal battle will likely continue.
“We know this may not be the end,” Feyerberg said. “If the state chooses to try again, Tim is ready and those witnesses are ready.”
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The accusations also put Bousfield’s marriage to “Little House on the Prairie” star Melissa Gilbert under public scrutiny.
Gilbert, who married Bousfield in 2013, has been a staunch defender of her husband. In an interview with ABC’s “Good Morning America” in April, she called the accusations devastating to their family and his career.
“Life as we know it is over,” Gilbert said, adding that she believed Bousfield would be acquitted.
After Friday’s rejection, Gilbert shared news coverage of the ruling on social media, signaling her continued support.
The indictment has now been concluded, but the possibility of re-opening criminal proceedings remains.
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