Robert Edwards, age 50 and known for co-creating the 'Squatty Potty' bathroom product, has been indicted on federal charges relating to child sexual abuse material (CSAM), as stated by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah. The indictment came from a federal grand jury on February 10, 2026, leading to Edwards' arrest on February 12.
"The case is being prosecuted under Project Safe Childhood, a federal initiative launched in 2006 with the stated mission to 'combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse.'"
During his initial court appearance, Edwards entered a plea of not guilty to one count of receipt of child pornography. He is currently in the custody of the U.S. Marshal Service. 'Squatty Potty' gained national prominence after Edwards and his mother Judy Edwards appeared on the TV show "Shark Tank," where they secured a deal with investors. The company further rose to fame through viral marketing campaigns and was eventually sold to Aterian, Inc. in 2021.
The case against Edwards began to unfold in March 2021 when an FBI agent joined an online group known to distribute CSAM. In a Zoom video call linked to the group, CSAM was actively streamed by participants. Investigators identified Edwards as one of the individuals in the call, which he joined from Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.
Further investigation by the FBI revealed that Edwards used his personal PayPal account for purchasing CSAM, engaging in transactions with individuals abroad who had convictions for CSAM-related offenses. Following a search warrant executed on November 4, 2025, law enforcement seized Edwards' cell phone, which he initially refused to unlock, leading to it self-locking after multiple failed attempts.
Edwards, who identified himself as the former owner of 'Squatty Potty,' spoke with investigators after his arrest. He disclosed a methamphetamine addiction and a recent stint in rehabilitation. He denied involvement with CSAM and requested legal counsel. Upon gaining access to his phone, investigators found multiple CSAM files. Additional electronic devices from Edwards' home and vehicle were also alleged to contain CSAM.
The case is being led by the FBI Salt Lake City Field Office, St. George Resident Agency, and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Burton. The prosecution falls under Project Safe Childhood, an initiative aimed at combating the exploitation and abuse of children. Edwards' detention hearing is set for March 2, 2026, in St. George, Utah.
