Utah Businessman Faces Serious Legal Charges
A Utah resident, known for his role in creating a popular bathroom product, has been indicted on federal charges related to child pornography. The individual, identified as Robert Edwards from Ivins, Utah, was formally charged by a federal grand jury on February 10 and subsequently arrested on February 12.
Details of the Charges
Edwards, aged 50, is facing one count of receipt of child pornography. During his initial court appearance, he entered a plea of not guilty and was placed under the custody of the U.S. Marshal Service. The charges stem from an investigation led by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah.
Background on the Accused
Robert Edwards, along with his family, gained prominence through the invention of the “Squatty Potty,” a bathroom aid designed to promote a more natural posture during use. The product gained significant attention after being featured on the television show “Shark Tank,” leading to a successful business venture. In 2021, the Edwards family sold the company to Aterian, Inc.
Investigation Unfolds
The investigation began in March 2021 when an FBI agent became involved with an online group known for trading child sexual abuse material (CSAM). The agent accessed a Zoom meeting link shared within the group, where participants were allegedly viewing CSAM.
During this meeting, an adult male was identified, and investigators linked the account to Edwards, who was reportedly participating from Puerto Vallarta. Further investigation revealed that Edwards had allegedly used his PayPal account to purchase CSAM, with transactions linked to individuals convicted of similar offenses in other countries.
Evidence and Legal Proceedings
In November 2025, law enforcement executed a search warrant on Edwards’ cell phone. When asked to unlock the device, Edwards reportedly refused, resulting in the phone being locked due to multiple failed attempts. Despite this, officers eventually accessed the phone and discovered numerous files of CSAM.
Additional devices retrieved from Edwards’ residence and vehicle reportedly contained similar material, along with evidence of purchases made through the messaging app Telegram.
Upcoming Court Dates
Edwards is scheduled for a detention hearing on March 2, 2026, in St. George. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Christopher Burton, with the investigation handled by the FBI Salt Lake City Field Office and the St. George Resident Agency.
Project Safe Childhood
This case is part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in 2006 to address the increasing issue of child sexual exploitation and abuse. The program aims to enhance law enforcement efforts and community awareness to combat these crimes.
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