Actor Gary Busey Pleads Guilty to Sexual Contact in New Jersey

Gary Busey, the 81-year-old Oscar-nominated actor known for roles in films like "Lethal Weapon" and "A Star is Born," has pleaded guilty to one count of fourth-degree criminal sexual contact related to an incident at the 2022 Monster-Mania horror movie convention in Cherry Hill, New Jersey. During a virtual court hearing, Busey admitted the inappropriate touching was intentional, though he initially denied the allegations, calling them false. The charges stem from accusations that Busey groped at least three women and tried to undo a woman's bra during photo sessions at the event. Under a plea agreement, other counts of criminal sexual contact and attempted criminal sexual contact were dismissed. Busey faces probation, fines, and must submit a DNA sample, with sentencing scheduled for September 18, 2025. The case highlights a dramatic fall from grace for Busey, whose erratic behavior has been linked to a 1988 motorcycle accident, and who was removed from the convention immediately after the complaints.