A high ranking executive with Ava Anderson Non Toxic is facing a felony charge for allegedly stealing more than $50,000 of the company’s products and selling them in Key West, Fla. under a different brand name.

Robert Anderson, 59, of North Providence, the firm’s controller, was arrested by Warren police on Thursday, Sept. 17, and had an initial appearance in Sixth Division District Court on Friday, Sept. 18. He was released on personal recognizance on one count of felony embezzlement.

Deputy Warren Police Chief Joseph Loiselle said a police investigation revealed that Mr. Anderson had the firm's products shipped to Key West, Fla., where they were relabeled and sold in a store called “Key West Organics.” A search warrant conducted at Mr. Anderson's home by Warren and North Providence police also uncovered more Ava Anderson products, Deputy Chief Loiselle said; the total value of the products involved was more than $50,000, he said.

The investigation began after the company’s owner and her attorney visited police earlier this month. Mr. Anderson's next appearance will be in Rhode Island Superior Court, where felony cases are adjudicated.

Deputy Chief Loiselle declined to discuss the case further.

Ava Anderson, which is now located at 99 Main St., Warren, was founded by a Barrington teenager, Ava Anderson, and is one of the country’s fastest-growing organic products firms. It produces skin care products, soaps, household products and more.

Editor's note: Robert Anderson is not a member of the Anderson family who owns and runs Ava Anderson Non Toxic.