Chester County man charged with indecent assault of 11-year-old at Walmart

Joseph Bouffard, 26, was released on $25,000 unsecured bail after the alleged incident in West Sadsbury Township

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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A 26-year-old Chester County, Pennsylvania man named Joseph Bouffard has been charged with multiple counts of indecent assault, unlawful sexual contact with a minor, and corruption of minors after allegedly following and inappropriately touching an 11-year-old girl at a Walmart store in West Sadsbury Township on January 24th. Bouffard was arraigned and released on $25,000 unsecured bail, and police are asking anyone with information about this incident or similar incidents to come forward.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing issue of child sexual abuse and the need for heightened vigilance and security measures in public places like retail stores to protect vulnerable minors. It also raises questions about bail policies for alleged sex offenders and whether more stringent conditions should be imposed to prevent further incidents.

The details

According to court documents, Joseph Bouffard, a resident of Glenmoore, Pennsylvania, followed the 11-year-old victim around the West Sadsbury Township Walmart store before inappropriately touching her. Bouffard has been charged with indecent assault, unlawful sexual contact with a minor, and corruption of minors.

  • The alleged offenses occurred on January 24, 2026.
  • Bouffard was arraigned on the charges on March 5, 2026.

The players

Joseph Bouffard

A 26-year-old resident of Glenmoore, Pennsylvania who has been charged with indecent assault, unlawful sexual contact with a minor, and corruption of minors for an alleged incident at a Walmart store.

Pennsylvania State Police

The law enforcement agency investigating the incident and asking the public for any information related to this case or similar incidents.

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What they’re saying

“Police say anyone with information about the incident or similar incidents should contact Trooper Christopher Johnson at 610-486-6280.”

— Pennsylvania State Police (cbsnews.com)

What’s next

The judge will determine whether to allow Bouffard to remain free on bail or order him held in custody as the case proceeds.

The takeaway

This disturbing incident underscores the need for heightened security measures and vigilance to protect children in public spaces, as well as the importance of swift action by law enforcement to apprehend and prosecute alleged child predators to the fullest extent of the law.