Last week, we reported that the former Little House on the Prairie star Melissa Gilbert’s husband Timothy Busfield had been accused of sexually abusing two 11 year-old twin boys. We then reported that Gilbert was standing by her husband in the wake of these allegations.
On Tuesday, January 20, Gilbert broke down in tears in court as a judge ruled that Busfield will be released from jail. Indeed, she was seen mouthing “thank you, God” as she cried when the judge issued this ruling.
Gilbert Sounds Off
On Monday, Gilbert broke her silence in the wake of Busfield’s release with a statement posted to social media. She posted this statement on the official Instagram account of her lifestyle brand company Modern Prairie.
“I’m sending you all my love and gratitude during this extraordinarily difficult time,” said Gilbert, 61. “Not only for Tim, me and our family, but in the collective heaviness so many of us seem to be carrying right now. Add an unexpected storm to the mix, and it can all feel like a bit too much.”
“This season has reminded me, very clearly, how important it is to slow down, prioritize what truly matters, and allow ourselves moments of rest,” she continued. “Stepping back from the noise, the news, and even our daily responsibilities from time to time gives us space to recharge, reflect, and find our center again.”
Gilbert went on to thank her loyal fans for the support that they’ve shown both her and Busfield, 68.
“Thank you, truly, for the love, patience, and support you continue to show Tim and me. Thank you for helping me to feel safer, more grounded, and deeply held by this extraordinary community of women here at Modern Prairie,” Gilbert concluded. “I’ll be easing back into things thoughtfully and with care – moving forward one step at a time. More to come, and so much gratitude always.”
Busfield’s Arrest
An arrest warrant was issued for Busfield, who has been married to Gilbert since 2013, on January 9. He went on to turn himself in to police on January 13.
Busfield, an Emmy-winning actor best known for roles on shows like The West Wing and movies like Field of Dreams, has been charged with two counts of criminal sexual contact of a minor (child under 13) and one count of child abuse. It’s been alleged that he engaged in unlawful sexual conduct with 11-year-old twin boys on the set of his series The Cleaning Lady, which he directed.
Gilbert has let it be known from the very beginning that she believes that her husband is innocent.
“Melissa stands with and supports her husband,” her rep told People Magazine after Busfield’s arrest.
Gilbert went into panic mode when Busfield was initially denied bond. Insiders close to the actress said afterwards that Gilbert believes that she’s living a “nightmare.”
“The past week has been a nightmare for Melissa,” a source told People. “She’s very concerned about Tim in jail. She wants him out so he’s safe. The detention facility where he’s being held has safety issue complaints. Her focus is to try and get him out this week.”
Gilbert ‘Believes He’s Innocent’
The insider went on to say that both Gilbert and Busfield are “very involved” working with their lawyer on the defense.
“They have this huge group of friends that support and check in on them every day,” the insider continued. “Melissa is very grateful for the support. She’ll be attending all the court hearings with Tim. She believes he’s innocent.”
After seven days, a judge finally decided to free Busfield pending trial on January 20. Gilbert was seen crying in court and mouthing “thank you, God” upon hearing this ruling.
Check out that emotional moment for yourself in the video below.
Gilbert and Busfield secured a victory in getting him release from jail. However, they still might be facing an uphill battle when it comes to proving his innocence. Only time will tell how this turns out for them both!