Renowned Hollywood actor Gary Busey has been sentenced to two years probation following a sexual offense case stemming from incidents at a horror movie convention in New Jersey. The 81-year-old actor, best known for his roles in films such as Point Break and A Star is Born, received his sentence during a virtual court hearing on March 15, 2024, presided over by Judge Gwendolyn Blue.
During the hearing, which took place in Camden, near Philadelphia, Busey chose not to address the court, stating, “I’m following my attorney’s advice.” His lawyer had requested a fine as punishment, highlighting Busey’s age and health concerns, as well as his permanent residency in California. Despite this, Judge Blue emphasized the seriousness of the allegations and Busey’s previous interactions with the criminal justice system, leading her to impose probation instead of a monetary penalty.
Details of the Incident
The actor was accused of groping multiple women during photo opportunities at the Monster-Mania Convention, which occurred from August 12-14, 2022, at the Doubletree Hotel in Cherry Hill, New Jersey. Reports indicate that Busey made inappropriate physical contact with at least three women, including an attempt to undo one woman’s bra. Following the allegations, he denied any wrongdoing, claiming, “It took less than 10 seconds and they left. Then they made up a story that I assaulted them sexually,” as reported by TMZ.
In response to the complaints, the Monster-Mania Convention organizers confirmed that a celebrity guest had been removed and advised attendees to contact law enforcement if they wished to file a report. Busey faced multiple charges, including two counts of criminal sexual contact, one count of attempted criminal sexual contact, and one count of harassment.
Legal Proceedings and Future Implications
Busey was initially charged in connection with these incidents and, in July, pleaded guilty to one count of fourth-degree criminal sexual contact. In a subsequent Zoom hearing, he acknowledged that the touching was not accidental. Following the sentencing, Judge Blue ordered Busey to have no contact with the victims involved in the case.
Photographers captured Busey in a controversial moment just one day after he was charged, when he was seen pulling his pants down in a public park in Malibu, California. The actor now has 45 days to appeal the court’s decision, and there is a possibility that his probation could be transferred to California.
As this case unfolds, Busey’s legal team has not publicly commented on the sentencing. The New York Post has reached out for further statements regarding the actor’s future plans in light of this ruling.
