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Actor and director Timothy Busfield will be released from a New Mexico jail while awaiting trial in a sex abuse case, after a judge ruled that he did not need to remain in custody.
The Emmy-winning actor surrendered to authorities last week and faces allegations that he sexually abused two boys while working on the set of a television series he directed and produced. Busfield, 68, has denied all claims.
Prosecutors sought his continued detention, arguing there was a pattern of inappropriate behaviour that escalated during production of The Cleaning Lady, filmed in New Mexico. They said the seriousness of the accusations required strict pretrial controls.
Busfield's wife, actor Melissa Gilbert, attended the hearing in Albuquerque and became emotional as the judge announced the ruling.
Judge David A Murphy approved Busfield's release on his own recognisance, meaning no bail was required. He ordered the actor to attend all future court dates and comply with conditions.
The defence submitted more than 70 letters of support from colleagues and acquaintances, describing Busfield as professional and reliable. Lawyers also said he passed a polygraph test, though prosecutors urged the court to give it little weight.
Deputy District Attorney Savannah Brandenburg-Koch told the court that sexual offenders do not fit a single profile and can target victims across different age groups.
Busfield's attorney, Amber Fayerberg, rejected claims that her client abused his position of authority, saying his career had already suffered damage. She said he had been dropped by his agency, removed from a film and publicly shunned.
The judge did not restrict Busfield's travel, noting he does not live in New Mexico, but ordered him to report to pretrial services. He is barred from contacting witnesses or children connected to the case.
Court documents say the boys' parents allege Busfield groomed the children over several years while working on set and described inappropriate touching.
Busfield, known for roles in Thirtysomething, Field of Dreams and The West Wing, faces two counts of criminal sexual contact of a minor and one count of child abuse. No trial date has been set yet.
