A prankster has been arrested and charged after allegedly spraying bug killer on food at an Arizona Walmart, according to police reports.
Charles Smith, 27, faces felony poisoning charges and misdemeanor charges of criminal damage, endangerment, and theft. The Mesa Police Department confirmed Smith’s arrest in a statement to Fox News Digital.
The incident occurred on December 19 around 8:30 p.m., when Smith entered a Walmart in Mesa with the intent to film pranks for social media. Police said he grabbed a can of bug spray without paying for it and proceeded to spray it on various food items, including produce and prepared foods like rotisserie chickens.
Smith filmed himself spraying the pesticide and later posted the video online. The police investigation, with the help of Tempe Police, quickly identified Smith as the suspect. He voluntarily turned himself in, where he confessed to the theft and spraying of the pesticide.
“Thanks to the tireless work of our officers and detectives, the arrest happened less than 24 hours after we were notified of the incident,” the Mesa Police Department stated. “We also want to express our thanks to the Tempe Police Department for their support and collaboration in quickly solving this case.”
Authorities have warned that the incident highlights the dangers of reckless actions disguised as social media pranks. Walmart responded by removing all affected products from the shelves and sanitizing the impacted store area.
“Customer safety is always our top priority,” Walmart said in a statement. “We apologize for any inconvenience caused and are working closely with law enforcement to resolve the situation.”