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Kearny Today
By the People, for the People
79-Year-Old Kearny Man Arrested for Exposing Himself, Performing Lewd Acts, and Showing Porn to Child Shoveling Snow
Suspect released on bail the next day despite charges of luring, endangering a child, and criminal sexual contact
Published on Feb. 26, 2026
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A 79-year-old Kearny man named Robert Grohl was arrested after allegedly paying a juvenile to shovel snow, then inviting the child into his home where he exposed himself, performed a sex act, and showed the child pornography. Grohl was charged with luring/enticing a child, endangering the welfare of a child, obscenity for persons under 18, and criminal sexual contact. He was released on bail the following day.
Why it matters
This case highlights concerns about the judicial system's handling of alleged sexual predators, especially those who target minors. The quick release of the suspect on bail raises questions about whether enough is being done to protect children from such offenders in the community.
The details
According to police, on February 23, 2026, a juvenile was going door-to-door offering snow shoveling services when Grohl hired him. After the work was completed, Grohl allegedly invited the child into his home, where he exposed himself, performed a lewd act, and showed the child pornography. The incident was reported to police shortly after, and Grohl was arrested the same evening. He was charged with luring/enticing a child, endangering the welfare of a child, obscenity for persons under 18, and criminal sexual contact.
- On February 23, 2026, a juvenile was going door-to-door offering snow shoveling services.
- Around 4:30 pm that day, Grohl hired the juvenile to shovel snow.
- After the work was completed, Grohl invited the child into his home.
- While inside, Grohl allegedly exposed himself, performed a lewd act, and showed the child pornography.
- The incident was reported to police shortly after it occurred.
The players
Robert Grohl
A 79-year-old Kearny man who was arrested for luring a child, exposing himself, performing lewd acts, and showing pornography to a juvenile who he had hired to shovel snow.
Detective Sergeant John Fabula
A member of the Kearny Police Department who provided details about the incident and Grohl's arrest.
What they’re saying
“Anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact the Kearny Police Department's Detective Bureau at (201) 998-1313.”
— Detective Sergeant John Fabula (theobserver.com)
What’s next
A Hudson County Superior Court judge will decide whether to allow Grohl to remain out on bail as the case proceeds.
The takeaway
This disturbing case highlights the need for stronger measures to protect children from sexual predators, as well as concerns about the judicial system's handling of such cases when suspects are quickly released on bail despite the serious nature of the alleged crimes.
