A Prankster Arrested for Spraying Bug Killer on Food at Arizona Walmart
A 27-year-old man was arrested and charged with several crimes after allegedly spraying bug killer on food items at a Walmart in Mesa, Arizona. Charles Smith, 27, was taken into custody after police received a report of someone spraying a pesticide on produce and prepared food items at the store.
According to the Mesa Police Department, Smith entered the Walmart on December 19 with the intention of filming pranks for social media. He grabbed a can of bug killer without paying for it and then sprayed the pesticide on various produce items, including vegetables, fruit, and rotisserie chickens. Smith also filmed himself and the act of spraying the pesticide, and later posted the video online.
Authorities were able to identify Smith as the suspect through an investigation and received assistance from the Tempe Police Department. Smith voluntarily turned himself in and admitted to the crimes.
The incident highlights the potential dangers of reckless actions, which Smith claimed were part of a social media prank. The police department stated that the incident is an example of “the potential dangers of reckless actions disguised as social media pranks.”
Walmart officials confirmed that they have removed all tainted products from the shelves and cleaned and sanitized the affected area of the store. The company apologized for any inconvenience caused to customers and will continue to work with law enforcement during the investigation.