Gary Busey Pleads Guilty to Inappropriate Touching at Horror Movie Convention
Gary Busey Pleads Guilty to Inappropriate Touching at Horror Convention
Hollywood actor Gary Busey, known for his roles in films like Point Break and his stint on Celebrity Big Brother, has pleaded guilty to inappropriately touching a woman at a horror movie convention in New Jersey. The incident occurred during the Monster-Mania Con in August 2022, where Busey was accused of groping the buttocks of two women and attempting to unhook another’s bra, reportedly asking her, “Where did you get them?”
The 81-year-old actor admitted to one count of fourth-degree criminal sexual conduct, stating, “It was not an accidental touching.” As a result, he has been sentenced to two years of probation, during which he must pay supervision fees and fines, provide a DNA sample, and refrain from any contact with the victim.
During the sentencing, Busey’s attorney, Blair Zwillman, argued against the need for probation, citing the actor’s age, health issues, and residence in California. Busey has faced significant health challenges since a motorcycle accident in 1988 left him in a coma for 30 days, resulting in severe brain injury and ongoing cognitive impairments.
Zwillman emphasized that while the incident was inappropriate, it was not as severe as other sexual misconduct cases, claiming it occurred during a photo shoot with fans and involved contact over clothing. However, Judge Gwendolyn Blue highlighted several aggravating factors, including Busey’s past legal troubles, such as a 2004 arrest for trespassing and a hit-and-run incident in 2021.
Judge Blue acknowledged Busey’s medical issues but ultimately concluded that the seriousness of the offense warranted the probation sentence. “Criminal sexual contact is a serious offense,” she stated, affirming the plea agreement.
As part of the plea deal, other charges against Busey were dropped. The victim provided an impact statement prior to the sentencing, underscoring the emotional toll of the incident.
This case serves as a reminder of the ongoing discussions surrounding consent and accountability in the entertainment industry, as Busey navigates the consequences of his actions.
