Melissa Gilbert was visibly emotional in a New Mexico courtroom as Judge David Murphy ordered the pretrial release of her husband, actor Timothy Busfield. The judge allowed Busfield to remain free under strict supervision, including a prohibition on firearms, mandatory abstinence from alcohol and illegal drugs, a no-contact order with the alleged victims, and requirements to notify the court of any changes in residence. No trial date has yet been set.
The ruling came despite prosecutors’ opposition. They cited allegations from actress Claudia Christian, who claimed Busfield forcibly grabbed her on a previous project, and noted that Busfield had traveled before reporting to authorities.
Judge Murphy determined that pretrial release was appropriate based on the evidence and Busfield’s history of court compliance.
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