Timothy Busfield’s Lie Detector Results Dismissed; Risk of Reoffending Remains
Timothy Busfield, a notable actor, faces serious accusations of child sexual abuse in New Mexico. The case was discussed in a recent court session, where Assistant District Attorney Savannah Brandenburg-Koch expressed concerns about the likelihood of Busfield reoffending. At 68 years old, Busfield allegedly abused a young actor from the series The Cleaning Lady.
Allegations and Prior Incidents
The allegations have resurfaced amidst claims dating as far back as 1994 and 2012, alongside another accusation revealed on January 14 related to teenage girls and adult women. During the proceedings, Brandenburg-Koch emphasized the challenges children face when disclosing abuse, noting that many delay speaking out.
The Defense’s Position
Busfield’s defense attorney, Christopher Dodd, contested the prosecution’s statements. He claimed that initial conversations with the children indicated no sexual abuse occurred. Dodd challenged the validity of the accusations, describing the prosecution’s approach as misleading.
- Accusations involve claims from male minors on The Cleaning Lady.
- Defense argues children denied inappropriate behavior in early police interviews.
Key Court Proceedings
During the court hearing, cinematographer Alan Caudillo testified in support of Busfield, stating that he found no truth in the initial allegations. Caudillo suggested the boys’ parents were difficult and expressed discomfort around them.
The court also addressed the results of a lie detector test that Busfield passed before his surrender. Brandenburg-Koch argued the results should hold little weight, as the relevant data was not provided. She insisted that the investigation surrounding the allegations was insufficient.
Concerns About Safety
Brandenburg-Koch urged the court to keep Busfield detained, citing the risks he poses to the community. She revealed that around 80% of children tend to delay reporting abuse and often disclose information gradually.
Public and Professional Backlash
The allegations have led to significant repercussions for Busfield’s career. An episode of Law & Order: SVU featuring him has been removed from the schedule. Additionally, he has been cut from the cast of an upcoming film, You Deserve Each Other, as a response to the charges. His agency, Innovative Artists, severed ties with him shortly after the news broke.
- Busfield’s professional engagements have faced significant cancellations.
- His agency dropped him amid the allegations.
As the case progresses, the court is set to make decisions regarding Busfield’s pretrial detention, gauging the seriousness of the accusations and implications for public safety.
