Pennsylvania Farmers Market Shop Owner Charged with Corrupting Minors and Soliciting Sex from Teen

By Ronald Rodriguez Last updated Oct 3, 2025

Quakertown, PA – A disturbing case has emerged from the Quakertown Farmers Market, where Joseph Grossman, owner of Poppy’s Peanuts ice cream shop, has been charged with serious offenses involving underage employees. The Bucks County District Attorney’s office revealed that Grossman allegedly solicited a 17-year-old girl for sex in exchange for money and drugs, and a second victim has since come forward with similar allegations.

Allegations and Arrest

Grossman was arrested in August by Richland Township police on charges including promoting the prostitution of a minor and corruption of minors. Prosecutors suspect that there may be more victims due to the nature of the accusations and the environment of the shop, which employs several minors.

The teen told police that Grossman made inappropriate comments and touched her improperly while she worked at the shop. After quitting, he continued to contact her through social media, asking her to meet him after hours to perform a sexual act for money and marijuana. She stated that Grossman initially offered money, and when she was visibly upset, he increased his offer to $300 along with drugs.

“He actually offered her money to engage in a sexual act,” said Bucks County District Attorney Jennifer Schorn. “When she was visibly upset and shocked by his request, he doubled down and offered three times the original amount, pulling out a roll of cash and offering her $300, and also offering drugs.”

Additional Victims and Ongoing Investigation

Following Grossman’s arrest, a second victim came forward with allegations of vulgar comments and unwanted physical contact. This individual also reported receiving drugs from Grossman but did not report any offer of money for sexual acts. These new allegations led to more charges in the case.

Authorities believe the incidents may have persisted for several months within a business that mostly serves families and children. They urge any other potential victims or witnesses to come forward by contacting Detective Matthew Lawhead at 215-536-9500.

“This is a business that largely caters to families and children,” District Attorney Schorn said. “We have concerns that his behavior was ongoing for months and that there could be additional victims. We are appealing to the community for help.”

Community Impact and Legal Proceedings

Joseph Grossman remains out on bail as he awaits trial on these charges. The allegations underscore the need for vigilance in workplaces that employ minors and highlight potential risks in environments that appear family-friendly.

For more information and ongoing updates on this case, visit the full report on CBS Philadelphia.

What You Should Know

Joseph Grossman is charged with promoting prostitution of a minor and corruption of minors.
The victims were underage employees at his ice cream shop located within Quakertown Farmers Market.
Offers of money and drugs were allegedly used to solicit sexual acts from at least one teen.
Authorities believe there may be more victims and encourage the community to report relevant information.
Grossman is currently out on bail pending trial.

Call to Action

Have you or someone you know experienced inappropriate behavior in any workplace, especially involving minors? Speak up and report it to protect vulnerable individuals in your community. What do you think about this troubling case? Share your thoughts and raise awareness by commenting below!