DOYLESTOWN, Pa. (KYW Newsradio) — The owner of a nuts and candy stand in the Quakertown Farmers Market is accused of harassing and soliciting underage employees. Bucks County authorities are concerned there may be more victims.
Joseph Grossman, the 36-year-old owner of Poppy’s Peanuts, was charged in June with making inappropriate comments to a 17-year-old employee and routinely touching her legs and back. Bucks County District Attorney Jen Schorn said the girl told police that after she quit, Grossman continued to contact her, even offering her money for sexual favors.
“She happened to see him in person at a later occasion, and he actually offered her money to engage in a sexual act,” she said. “And when she was visibly upset, and it was clear she was upset and shocked by his request, he then, in fact, doubled down and offered her three times the original amount of money.”
Schorn said after charges were filed in that investigation, a second teenager came forward with similar accusations.
“With this victim, what is really troubling is not only did he continually pursue her sexually and make the comments and physically touch her body, but he also provided her with drugs,” she said.
Grossman’s shop at the Quakertown Farmers Market specializes in roasted nuts, candies and ice cream. Schorn said customers are largely families and children, with teenage employees.
“We have concerns that his behavior was ongoing for several months,” she said. “We have concerns there may be other victims, and that’s why we’re appealing to the community for anyone who may have information as it relates to these victims, but also any information as it relates to Grossman.”
Anyone with that information should contact Richland Township police or the Bucks County District Attorney’s Office.
Grossman is charged with promoting prostitution of a minor and corruption of minors. He is free on 10% of $250,000 bail.