Actor Gary Busey was sentenced to two years of probation and fined after pleading guilty in a criminal sex contact case that involved a 2022 horror movie convention in Cherry Hill, New Jersey.
The 81-year-old actor appeared virtually from his California home for the sentencing in Camden County court. When given the chance to make a statement, Busey declined, telling the judge, “I’m following my attorney’s advice.”
The incident was brought out in allegations that the actor groped multiple women when posing with them for pictures at the Monster Mania convention, which took place at a hotel in Cherry Hill. Police also made public body cam video with Busey talking to investigators about what happened.
Busey pleaded guilty last month to one count of criminal sexual contact. Three other counts were dismissed under the terms of the plea bargain. In arguing for a sentence that would be no more than fines, his lawyer cited Busey’s advanced age, continuing health issues, and permanent residence in California.
But Judge Gwendolyn Blue decided to put her on probation based on the gravity of the charges and Busey’s background with the criminal justice system. “In the interest of justice, I am sentencing this defendant to two years probation,” Judge Blue said.
The judge also prohibited Busey from contacting the victim. He has 45 days to appeal his sentence and can apply to be placed on probation in California, where he lives.
The actor, who has appeared in movies like Lethal Weapon and Predator 2, has been a Hollywood career man for many years but has also seen some legal issues in the past. The sentencing brings to an end a case that was highly publicized because of Busey’s fame and the gruesomeness of the charges.
Though the plea agreement lowered the number of charges, the judge’s ruling indicates the court’s position that the crime deserved more than economic sanctions. Busey will now face probationary monitoring as part of his punishment, a reminder that celebrity does not place one above the law.
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