‘Squatty Potty’ Creator Faces Federal Charges Over Child Pornography Allegations

The Allegations

In a shocking turn of events, the inventor behind the wildly successful 'Squatty Potty,' Robert Edwards, has been indicted on severe charges. The 50-year-old from Ivins, Utah, was indicted by a federal grand jury on February 10 and taken into custody on February 12. He faces one count of receiving child pornography, to which he pleaded not guilty at his initial court appearance. The U.S. Marshal Service has since taken over his custody.

Edwards, known for popularizing a bathroom aid through a memorable 'Shark Tank' appearance and viral ad campaigns, is now at the center of a serious federal investigation. The product, initially developed with his mother, Judy Edwards, saw its creators sell it to Aterian, Inc. in 2021.

Investigation Details

According to court filings, authorities traced Edwards' alleged activities back to March 2021. An undercover FBI agent infiltrated an online group known for trading child sexual abuse material (CSAM) and linked Edwards to a Zoom meeting where such material was being viewed. It was reported that Edwards accessed the meeting from Puerto Vallarta.

“I’ve moved on from the business and am now living off Bitcoin,” Edwards reportedly told investigators, following his disclosure of a methamphetamine addiction.

Further inquiry revealed that in May 2025, Edwards used PayPal for transactions linked to CSAM. His digital trail included interactions with individuals previously convicted on similar charges abroad. Later in the year, a November 4 search of his mobile device unearthed several incriminating files.

Legal Proceedings and Future

In the midst of the investigation, Edwards denied any involvement with CSAM and invoked his right to legal counsel. Despite this, evidence from his residence and vehicles further implicated him. His devices contained content that appeared to have been purchased through Telegram.

As the case progresses, Edwards’ detention hearing is scheduled for March 2, 2026. Assistant United States Attorney Christopher Burton is leading the prosecution, while the FBI Salt Lake City Field Office handles the investigation. This case is part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to fight child exploitation.