An Arizona man was arrested Saturday after allegedly filming himself spraying pesticides on groceries inside a Walmart store, police said.
The Mesa Police Department (MPD) arrested Charles Smith, 27, in connection with “reckless social media posts regarding pesticide spraying on produce and other food products at the Mesa Walmart.” said In a press release. According to police, the incident occurred Thursday around 8:30 p.m.
Police said Smith allegedly entered the store with the intention of filming a prank video for social media and grabbed a can of Hot Shot Ultra Bed Bug and Flea Killer from a store shelf without paying.
The 27-year-old then allegedly sprayed fruit, vegetables and rotisserie chicken available in the store with pesticides.
“Smith filmed his face, the can of pesticide, and the act of spraying. He then posted the video online,” the Metropolitan Police said. (Related: Influencer allegedly uploaded video of herself stealing from target shoplifted from same location, police say)
The video has since been deleted from his account TikTok account However, it continues to spread on social media. his latest video It shows him tying a bungee cord to the store’s door handle and telling customers inside the store: “You’re stuck in there forever.”
Now, this is insane. This guy was stupid enough to spray toxic bug spray on produce at Walmart and post it on the internet.
Lock him up! cr: @ImMeme0 pic.twitter.com/z5Er45SZi2
— David J. Harris Jr. (@DavidJHarrisJr) December 21, 2024
MPD and Tempe police officials identified Smith as a suspect and contacted him. During police questioning, Smith admitted to stealing the items and spraying them, police said.
“This incident highlights the potential dangers of reckless behavior disguised as a social media prank,” the Metropolitan Police Department said in a press release. “The Mesa Police Department is proud of the quick and diligent work of our officers and detectives to solve this case and protect the community.”
Police said Smith was charged with a felony count of introducing a poisonous substance and three misdemeanor counts, including criminal damage to property, endangerment and theft.
Walmart spokesperson said AZ Family reported that after the incident, all affected merchandise was removed and the affected areas of the store were disinfected.
