MESA, Ariz. (KPHO/Gray News) – A man is facing multiple charges after he allegedly filmed himself spraying bug killer on food products at an Arizona Walmart Supercenter.
Mesa police said they arrested 27-year-old Charles Smith on Saturday in connection with an incident that happened on Thursday at the Walmart at Stapley Drive and Baseline Road.
Authorities said they found out about the video showing the items getting sprayed on Friday.
According to police, Smith entered the store with plans to film social media pranks, and he grabbed a can of Hot Shot Ultra Bed Bug and Flea Killer without paying for the item.
Video uploaded to social media, but later deleted, showed Smith spraying the pesticide on various produce items available for purchase, including vegetables, fruit and rotisserie chickens, police said.
A Walmart spokesperson said workers removed the impacted products and cleaned and sanitized the affected area of the store.
Smith reportedly filmed his face, the pesticide can and the act of spraying the items before he posted the video online.
Mesa police began an investigation along with the Tempe Police Department and identified Smith as the suspect. Police contacted Smith, and he turned himself in voluntarily.
Police said the 27-year-old admitted to what was done in an interview. He faces charges that include introducing poison and criminal damage.
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