The latest legal controversy involving Timothy Busfield has brought renewed attention to a decades-old allegation connected to Julia Roberts’ extended family. While Julia Roberts herself has no involvement in the case, past claims made by her sister-in-law have resurfaced as new charges move forward in New Mexico.
According to AOL, Timothy Busfield now faces criminal charges tied to alleged conduct in 2022. The development has revived earlier testimony from Eliza Roberts, who married Julia Roberts’ brother, Eric Roberts, in the early 1990s. As details unfold, the situation has drawn public focus not only to the current case but also to prior accusations that once made headlines.
Julia Roberts’ Sister-in-Law Spoke Out Decades Ago
In a 1994 deposition, Eliza Roberts accused Timothy Busfield of making explicit and unwanted remarks toward her. She claimed he expressed a desire to perform a sexual act and boasted about his abilities while also criticizing his then-wife, fashion designer Jenny Merwin. At the time, Busfield was married to Merwin, whom he later divorced in 2007 before marrying actress Melissa Gilbert.
Eliza’s testimony came as she supported a 17-year-old girl who alleged that Busfield sexually assaulted her on the set of the film Little Big League. Prosecutors never filed criminal charges in that case. Timothy Busfield denied the allegations and settled the teen’s civil lawsuit for an undisclosed amount. He maintained his innocence throughout that dispute.
Timothy Busfield Faces New Charges
Prosecutors in New Mexico have now charged Timothy Busfield with two counts of criminal sexual contact of a minor and one count of child abuse. Authorities allege the conduct took place in 2022 while he directed episodes of the television series The Cleaning Lady. The accusations involve twin child actors who worked on the production.
Timothy Busfield has firmly denied the new allegations. Before surrendering to authorities in Albuquerque, he stated that he would “confront the horrible lies” and insisted he did nothing wrong. His attorney argues that no evidence supports the claims and says Busfield voluntarily completed and passed an independent polygraph exam. A judge released him on his own recognizance pending trial on January 20, and the legal process continues.