ALBUQUERQUE, NM. (THECOUNT.COM) — Timothy Busfield, 68, an actor known for his roles in “The West Wing” and “Thirtysomething,” is facing multiple felony charges in New Mexico, as his wife, actress Melissa Gilbert, has submitted an emotional letter to a judge requesting that he be kept safe while in custody.
According to the Albuquerque Police Department, Busfield turned himself in to authorities on Jan. 13 after an arrest warrant was issued alleging unlawful sexual conduct involving two minor boys. Busfield has been charged with two counts of criminal sexual contact with a minor and one count of child abuse. Authorities have confirmed that the case remains ongoing, and the allegations have not been adjudicated in court.
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Gilbert, 61, best known for her role as Laura Ingalls Wilder on “Little House on the Prairie,” addressed the court in a personal letter expressing concern for her husband’s safety while in custody. In the letter, portions of which have been reported by multiple media outlets, Gilbert described Busfield as her “love” and her “rock,” asking that the court take measures to protect him during the legal process.
In her message, Gilbert characterized Busfield as a compassionate and principled individual, stating that he possesses “the strongest moral compass of any human I have ever known.” She wrote that he begins each day with kindness and service to others, and emphasized the emotional toll the situation has taken on her.
The couple married in 2013. Gilbert also referenced Busfield’s relationship with her youngest son, Michael, now 30, whom she shares with actor Bruce Boxleitner. In the letter, Gilbert said Busfield became a steady presence in her son’s life during his teenage years, offering guidance, discipline, and emotional support. She described witnessing that bond as one of the most meaningful experiences of her life.
“Michael was a teenager when Tim and I got together,” Gilbert wrote, according to reports. “A full-blown, angst-ridden teenager trying to figure out his place in the world.” She credited Busfield with helping guide her son through that period, noting his involvement as both nurturing and supportive.
Gilbert acknowledged the gravity of the circumstances surrounding the case, describing her message to the court as “the strangest letter I’ve ever had to write.” She stated that she struggled to balance logic with emotion while addressing the judge, particularly given her inability to protect her husband while he is in custody.
In closing, Gilbert made a direct appeal to the court, asking that Busfield’s safety be ensured. “Please take care of my sweet husband,” she wrote. “As he is my protector, I am his, but I cannot protect him now.” She added that relying on the court for his protection has been emotionally devastating for her.
Authorities have not released additional details regarding the allegations cited in the arrest warrant. Law enforcement officials have confirmed that the investigation is ongoing, and no trial date has been publicly announced.
Under U.S. law, Busfield is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law. No further information regarding potential court proceedings or bond conditions has been released as of publication.
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