Gary Busey sentenced to two years probation in groping case at New Jersey horror convention

Gary Busey, the 81-year-old actor known for his work in film and television, was sentenced to two years of probation after pleading guilty to one count of fourth-degree criminal sexual contact in relation to a groping incident at a horror convention in Cherry Hill, New Jersey, in 2022. The virtual hearing took place in Camden, with Judge Gwendolyn Blue presiding. Busey declined to speak at the proceeding, telling the judge he was following his attorney’s advice. His defense had asked the court to impose only a fine due to the actor’s age, health concerns and residence in California, but the court chose probation, citing the seriousness of the incident and Busey’s prior contact with the criminal justice system. The judge also ordered no contact between Busey and the victim.

According to coverage cited by ABC 6, Busey pleaded guilty in July to one count of fourth-degree criminal sexual contact. Prosecutors described the incident as touching at least three women during photo ops at the Monster-Mania Convention, held August 12–14, 2022, at the DoubleTree Hotel in Cherry Hill. Busey had previously denied the allegations, telling TMZ, “It took less than 10 seconds and they left. Then they made up a story that I assaulted them sexually.” He also stated he did not carry regrets because “nothing happened.” The convention, for its part, acknowledged that a celebrity guest was removed after a complaint from attendees and urged others to contact police to file reports.

The court’s ruling reflects a balance between the seriousness of the conduct and Busey’s prior encounters with the justice system. Blue ordered that Busey have no contact with the victim and noted the possibility that the probation sentence could be transferred to California. Busey has about 45 days to appeal the sentence. The Post reported on the proceedings, and additional context on the case has been documented by coverage from CourtTV and other outlets.

Photographs and footage from the era show Busey at a variety of public appearances; in this proceeding, Zoom video allowed the actor to participate remotely. For example, the hearing was conducted via Zoom, with Busey appearing from an off-site location. The images circulating from Monster-Mania-era appearances show a different facet of the actor’s long career, which includes an Oscar-nominated performance in The Buddy Holly Story and a broad body of work across decades.

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The case has drawn continued public interest given Busey’s long-standing profile in popular culture, his past roles, and the evolving discussion around conduct at fan conventions. Court documents indicate multiple charges were originally filed, and the defendant ultimately entered a guilty plea to a single count in July before the sentencing. The defendant’s representative did not immediately respond to requests for comment following the hearing. Court records show that the two-year probation term includes conditions typical of such sentences, including avoiding contact with the complainant and complying with all legal requirements in the jurisdictions where Busey resides and performs.