Zayas Replaces Busfield in Rescheduled Law & Order: SVU "Corrosive" Episode
David Zayas has been cast to replace Timothy Busfield in an episode of Law & Order: SVU. The episode, titled “Corrosive,” was originally scheduled to air on January 15 but was postponed.
NBC made the decision after an arrest warrant was issued for Busfield, who was charged with two counts of criminal sexual contact with a minor and child abuse.
NBC confirmed on Tuesday that Zayas was recast as the judge, the episode was re-shot, and it is now scheduled to air on February 26.
"Corrosive" Episode Addresses Abuse Themes
The “Corrosive” episode addresses themes of abuse, focusing on a case involving threats against a respected judge. The SVU team's investigation connects to an anonymous video, and the plot explores themes of trauma and recovery. Within the narrative, Detective Amanda Rollins is shown supporting a victim.
Timothy Busfield's Charges and Investigation
Busfield’s charges originate from allegations of inappropriate behavior towards two child actors on the New Mexico set of the Fox/Warner Bros TV drama series The Cleaning Lady. Busfield was a director and executive producer for the series. A conviction could result in a minimum of three years imprisonment.
The Albuquerque Police Department was contacted in late 2024 by a doctor from University of New Mexico Hospital concerning a “sexual abuse investigation” involving the two child actors, both born in 2014.
Warner Bros TV conducted an internal investigation into allegations against Busfield after SAG-AFTRA received an anonymous complaint in early 2025 regarding a December 2024 incident on The Cleaning Lady set. This studio probe reportedly “exonerated” Busfield.
Warner Bros TV is cooperating with law enforcement regarding the ongoing investigation.
David Zayas: From Dexter to SVU
Zayas is known for his role as Angel Batista in Dexter, a role he reprised in Dexter: New Blood and Dexter: Resurrection. His recent credits include The Running Man, The Bear, and Blue Bloods.