Actor Gary Busey found himself in legal trouble in 2022 when he was accused of inappropriate behavior at an event in Camden County, New Jersey. The case led to criminal charges, and nearly three years on, he is still embroiled in court proceedings.
Busey was summoned virtually from California to a virtual court hearing on Monday. The Lethal Weapon actor is in denial of the charges, which stem from accusations of improper behavior at a public function. His lawyers are fighting fiercely to have the case dismissed, setting the stage for a sustained legal battle.
Why was Gary Busey charged to court?
GARY BUSEY ARRAIGNED! 💯⚖️ on charges of inappropriate sexual contact in NJ. He should be eligible for a diversionary program. However, his attorney is first trying to dismiss the case outright, based on exculpatory affidavits. @CourtTV pic.twitter.com/EMCp6VXX8j
— Julie Grant (@JulieCourtTV) March 24, 2025
It is reported that two women called the police from the venue of the convention, alleging that Busey had groped them while taking photos with him. One of the women reported that Busey pushed his face into her chest, made a comment about her body, and attempted to loosen her bra strap. Another woman reported that he pinched her backside when posing for a photo with her.
A third accusation came from the father of a woman who was in attendance. He reported to authorities that Busey also had touched his daughter’s ass without consent. The Cherry Hill Police Department initiated an investigation, which led to charges of criminal sexual contact and harassment.
What was Gary Busey’s response to the accusations?
During Monday’s online hearing, Busey’s new lawyer, Blair Zwillman, entered a not-guilty plea on behalf of the actor. Zwillman, who is in charge of the case, explained that he is drafting a motion to have the charges dismissed based on what he calls “exculpatory affidavits” that he obtained from previous lawyers representing Busey.
The defense said these affidavits may be able to exonerate Busey by presenting evidence contrary to the allegations. A plea bargain was mentioned in passing during the court hearing, but no details were given. Instead, Zwillman insisted that he is working towards having the case dismissed in its entirety and not for a plea.