Actress and director Timothy Busfield could face up to 15 years in prison if convicted on multiple child sex abuse charges, a situation that has drawn public attention and prompted a heartfelt response from his wife, Melissa Gilbert.
Gilbert, widely known for her iconic role on Little House on the Prairie, had previously indicated she would “speak publicly while the legal process unfolds.” She has now broken her silence, sharing a candid message with fans on her Official Modern Prairie Instagram page.
Busfield, 68, turned himself in to authorities in New Mexico on January 13, 2026. He was held without bail and faces two counts of criminal sexual contact of a minor and one count of child abuse. Under New Mexico law, the charges carry potential prison sentences of up to six years per count of criminal sexual contact and up to three years for child abuse, totaling 15 years if convicted.
