Bucks business owner charged with attempting to trade cash and drugs for sex with teenage employees, according to the district attorney.

Poppy’s Peanuts has positioned itself as a family-oriented enterprise, offering a range of products including chocolates, candy, and ice cream at the Quakertown Farmers Market. However, recent allegations concerning its owner, Joseph Grossman, reveal a troubling reality behind the facade of this small business. According to officials, Grossman, 36, has been charged with multiple offenses involving the inappropriate treatment of underage employees.

The Bucks County District Attorney’s Office has leveled charges of promoting prostitution and corruption of minors against Grossman. Prosecutors allege that he engaged in inappropriate touching of two 17-year-old girls and sought to exchange cash and drugs for sexual favors. District Attorney Jen Schorn has expressed concerns that there may be additional victims given the nature of the allegations, emphasizing the vulnerability of the young employees working under Grossman’s authority.

In an affidavit detailing the allegations, it is reported that the investigation commenced in June when the mother of one of the young women contacted the state Department of Human Services’ ChildLine system. The victim recounted that her employment at Poppy’s Peanuts lasted from January to June, during which she experienced repeated instances of discomfort stemming from Grossman’s behavior, including inappropriate touching and troubling remarks.

Following her resignation, which stemmed from this discomfort, the victim stated that Grossman continued to reach out to her via Snapchat. His messages escalated, eventually leading to an encounter where he allegedly offered her 0 for a sexual act and subsequently increased the offer to 0. The young woman declined and left the premises.

Further investigation led to another victim, who also reported similar harassment and inappropriate advances from Grossman during her employment. This individual detailed instances of unwanted physical contact and an offer of marijuana during after-hours cleaning, claiming that she felt unwell after consuming what she suspected might have been a potent substance.

Despite the serious nature of these allegations, Grossman has been released on bail set at 0,000, having paid 10% of that amount. He continues to operate Poppy’s Peanuts, and authorities have urged anyone with additional information about his conduct to contact the Richland Township police department.

The unfolding events have raised grave concerns about the safety of young employees in business environments where power dynamics may create conditions for exploitation. Authorities remain vigilant as the investigation continues, emphasizing the importance of creating safe workspaces for all.

For further inquiries or to report any additional information, interested individuals are encouraged to reach out to the Richland Township Detectives at 215-536-9500.

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