Actor Gary Busey Pleads Not Guilty to Sexual Contact Charges from New Jersey Convention
During a virtual court hearing on March 24, 2025, Gary Busey fought back against charges of fourth-degree criminal sexual contact and harassment in a New Jersey court. The actor joined from his home in California.
Three women at the Monster Mania Convention reported unwanted touching at Cherry Hill’s DoubleTree Hotel in August 2022. His lawyer, Blair Zwillman, is pushing to get the charges dismissed, pointing to new witness statements supporting Busey’s innocence, according to Court TV.
Right before the hearing, Gary Busey’s team asked for pretrial intervention – a possible way to skip going to trial. The 80-year-old actor watched the court proceedings through video chat.
The alleged incidents took place during a special milestone – Monster-Mania’s 50th show. This fan convention, running twice a year since 2003, brings movie stars face-to-face with fans through Q&A sessions and autograph signings.
Police got involved after three attendees came forward about uncomfortable encounters at the event. Their complaints led to criminal charges in the Cherry Hill court system.
If convicted, the Oscar-nominated actor from “The Buddy Holly Story” could face heavy penalties under New Jersey law for each fourth-degree offense.
