The entrepreneur behind one of the most talked-about products ever to hit Shark Tank is now facing explosive federal charges.
Robert Edwards, co-creator of the Squatty Potty, has been indicted and arrested on allegations related to child sexual abuse material. The 2014 Shark Tank alum pleaded not guilty after being charged with receipt of child pornography, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
A federal grand jury handed down the indictment on Feb. 10. Edwards was arrested two days later in Washington County, Utah. During his initial court appearance, he entered a not guilty plea.
Prosecutors allege that between March and November 2021, Edwards knowingly received multiple images of child sexual abuse material. According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, an undercover FBI agent infiltrated an online group chat in March 2021 where users were allegedly viewing a collection of child sexual abuse videos. Authorities claim Edwards was among those participating in the chat.
Investigators also allege that in May 2025, Edwards was suspected of purchasing additional illegal material using his PayPal account. After executing a search warrant at his home and on his person, law enforcement officers reportedly discovered multiple videos and images on a cellphone found in his car. Additional material was allegedly uncovered on other electronic devices inside his residence.
A detention hearing is scheduled for March 2 in St. George, Utah.
Edwards has not publicly commented on the allegations.
The arrest marks a stunning turn for a businessman who once celebrated massive success on national television. Edwards and his mother, Judy, launched Squatty Potty in 2010. The footstool, designed to improve bathroom posture, became a viral sensation. After appearing on Shark Tank in 2014, they secured a $350,000 investment from Lori Greiner, sending sales soaring.
By the time the duo returned to the show in 2020, Edwards revealed the company had generated $175 million in sales since their first appearance.
Squatty Potty was later acquired by consumer products company Aterian in 2021. Following news of the indictment, Aterian released a statement distancing itself from Edwards.
The company said it has no affiliation, partnership, or ongoing relationship with him. According to the statement, Edwards was part of a group that sold certain assets to Aterian in a one-time transaction in 2021, and all associations ended after the deal closed. The company also said Edwards is not an employee, partner, or stakeholder.
Aterian added that it was “deeply disturbed” by the allegations and called the nature of the charges abhorrent and inconsistent with its values. References to Edwards and his family have since been removed from the brand’s website.