Over the years, viewers have seen a number of figures and products on Shark Tank, as hopeful entrepreneurs each try to impress the “sharks.” Recently, it’s been shared that one series alum has been arrested on a child pornography charge. The story previously came to light after an undercover FBI agent infiltrated an online group chat.
Shark Tank Alum Arrested In Washington County, Utah
Shark Tank is a reality series that premiered back in 2009 on ABC. Based on the Japanese series, The Tigers of Money, it features entrepreneurs presenting their business ideas to angel investors, or “Sharks,” who will decide on whether to invest in their companies.
Recently, news has come out that a figure who appeared on the show was arrested on a charge of receipt of child pornography. They have reportedly pleaded not guilty to the charge.
The suspect was identified as Robert Edwards, the creator of the Squatty Potty. The businessman previously appeared on Shark Tank in 2014.
Edwards was indicted by a federal grand jury on February 10. He was arrested a few days later in Washington County, Utah. The United States Attorney’s Office claimed that Edwards “knowingly received multiple images of child sexual abuse material” on multiple occasions between March 2021 and November.
Robert Edwards, Known For Selling The Squatty Potty, Appeared On Shark Tank In 2014 & 2020
An undercover FBI agent had infiltrated a group chat that viewed “a collection of child sexual abuse material videos” in March 2021. Allegedly, Edwards was a user in the chat. According to the UASO, FBI agents later claimed that “Edwards was suspected of purchasing additional child sexual abuse material via his PayPal account” back in May 2025.
Following a search warrant on Edwards’ person and residence, officers allegedly found “multiple videos and images” of child pornography on a cell phone. They also allegedly discovered more child sex abuse material after searching various devices in his home.
According to Entertainment Weekly, Edwards’ detention hearing is set for March 2, 2026, in St. George, Utah. The outlet shared that he did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Edwards had started selling the Squatty Potty with his mother back in 2010. This device is a specialty footstool that helps with bowel movements.
During his 2014 appearance on Shark Tank, a $350,000 investment from shark Lori Greiner helped boost sales for the product. He later appeared on the show again in 2020, where he shared that the company had sold $175 million worth of Squatty Potties since he last appeared on the show.
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John Witiw has been a writer since at least 2015. He’s covered a variety of topics, especially when it comes to film and television.
