TikTok Prankster Indicted for Allegedly Poisoning Food at Mesa Walmart
IStock

TikTok Prankster Indicted for Allegedly Poisoning Food at Mesa Walmart

Charles Smith faces multiple charges after posting video evidence of spraying pesticide on store items.

PHOENIX — A grand jury has indicted Charles Smith, a 27-year-old TikTok influencer, accused of poisoning food at a Mesa Walmart, the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office announced.

Smith allegedly filmed himself on Dec. 19, 2024, spraying pesticide on vegetables and rotisserie chicken and uploaded the footage to his social media accounts. According to prosecutors, the video showed Smith tainting the food with a pesticide called Hot Shot Ultra Bed Bug and Flea Killer, which he also did not pay for.

Charges Against Smith

Smith has been charged with five counts:

  • One count of third-degree burglary.
  • Two counts of adding poison or another harmful substance to food, water, drink, or medicine.
  • One count of endangerment.
  • One count of criminal damage.

Impact of the Incident

The tainted food, including produce and chicken, was discarded, resulting in over $900 in losses for Walmart, according to prosecutors.

Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell condemned the act and urged the public to report harmful social media content.

“This type of behavior not only jeopardizes public health and safety but also undermines trust within our communities,” Mitchell said in a statement.

Public Safety Reminder

Authorities have encouraged vigilance, asking residents to report concerning online content that poses a threat to public safety. The incident serves as a reminder of the real-world consequences of harmful online pranks.