Mesa Police Arrest Suspect for Spraying Pesticides on Produce

Mesa, AZ – (December 21, 2024): On December 21, 2024, the Mesa Police Department arrested 27-year-old Charles Smith in connection with a reckless social media post involving the spraying of pesticides on produce and other food items at a Mesa Walmart.

The incident occurred on December 19, 2024, at approximately 8:30 p.m. at the Walmart located at 1955 S. Stapley Drive. Smith entered the store intending to film pranks for social media but instead selected a can of Hot Shot Ultra Bed Bug and Flea Killer from the shelf without paying for it. He then sprayed the pesticide on various produce items, including vegetables, fruit, and rotisserie chickens that were available for purchase. Smith filmed his face, the pesticide can, and the act of spraying. He later posted the video online.

 Through investigative means, and with assistance from the Tempe Police Department, detectives were able to identify Smith as the suspect. Mesa Police contacted Smith and he turned himself in voluntarily. During the interview, Smith admitted to the theft and spraying of the pesticide.

 Thanks to the tireless work of our officers and detectives, an arrest occurred less than 24 hours after police were notified of the incident. We also extend our gratitude to the Tempe Police Department for their valuable contributions and collaboration in quickly solving this case.

Based on the investigation, Smith was booked into jail on the following charges:

1.       Introducing Poison (ARS 13-3704.A2 – Class 6 Felony)

2.       Criminal Damage (ARS 13-1602.A2 – Class 1 Misdemeanor)

3.       Endangerment (ARS 13-1201.A – Class 1 Misdemeanor)

4.       Theft (ARS 13-1802.A1 – Class 1 Misdemeanor) 

This incident underscores the potential dangers of reckless actions disguised as social media pranks. The Mesa Police Department is proud of the swift and diligent work of our officers and detectives in resolving this case and protecting the community.

 

Arrest of Four Men for Theft at Mesa UPS Warehouse

On December 17, 2024, four employees of the United Parcel Service (UPS) warehouse located at 5552 E. Inverness Ave in Mesa, Arizona, were taken into custody following an investigation into a large-scale theft operation.

The investigation began when UPS conducted an internal fraud and theft review at their warehouse. The security supervisor of UPS spearheaded the inquiry, identifying irregularities with packages received from vendors but not delivered to their final destinations. During this process, UPS security uncovered evidence pointing to employee involvement.

Four employees, identified as 34-year-old Bo Arias, 33-year-old Jeremy Large, 31-year-old David Panasci, and 31-year-old Casey Bedell, admitted to their involvement in the scheme. 

The following charges were filed against the suspects:

Bo Arias:

• ARS 13-2310A - Fraudulent Schemes and Artifices (Class 2 Felony)
• ARS 13-1802A1 - Theft; Greater than $10,000 (Class 3 Felony)

Jeremy Large:

• ARS 13-1802A1 - Theft; Greater than $10,000 (Class 3 Felony)

David Panasci:

• ARS 13-2310A - Fraudulent Schemes and Artifices (Class 2 Felony)
• ARS 13-1802A1 - Theft; Greater than $10,000 (Class 3 Felony)

Casey Bedell:

• ARS 13-1802A1 - Theft; Greater than $10,000 (Class 3 Felony)

The successful apprehension of these individuals demonstrates the effectiveness of collaboration between corporate security teams and law enforcement. The evidence provided by UPS was instrumental in securing confessions and holding those responsible accountable for their actions. The suspects now face significant legal consequences for their involvement in this fraudulent scheme.

Mesa Police Seek Information About Western Canal Assault/ Indecent Exposure Incidents

UPDATE: 

Mesa Police Announce Arrest in Western Canal Assault/Indecent Exposure Case

Mesa, AZ (January 09, 2025): Mesa Police arrested 18-year-old Gavin Harbour, in connection with two incidents of assault and indecent exposure that occurred along the Western Canal in late November and early December 2024.

Since the end of November 2024, there have been at least two separate incidents involving a male suspect. In both cases, the suspect asked the victims for directions to a nearby gas station before committing the offenses.

Detectives worked tirelessly on this case, following every lead that was presented. On 01/09/2025, one of the leads pointed to Harbour, who detectives were able to locate and interview. Gavin Harbour was booked into jail for ARS 13-1402 Indecent Exposure and ARS 13-1203.A.1 Assault.

Mesa Police are still encouraging anyone with additional information about these incidents or anyone who believes they may also be a victim to contact the Mesa Police Department at 480-644-2211.

Mesa Police seek information leading to the identity of a male suspect who allegedly groped one female and exposed himself to another on the Western Canal between late November- early December 2024.

Since the end of November 2024, there have been at least two separate incidents involving a male suspect described as white, light complexion with shoulder length/long curly blonde or dirty blonde hair. He is between 5’5”-5’10” tall and appears to be in his late teens or early 20s. At the time these incidents occurred, he was wearing a black hoodie and riding a black bicycle. He may also wear glasses. Both times he asked the victim for directions to a nearby gas station.

Mesa Police are asking anyone with information about these two incidents, information about the suspect, or anyone who thinks they may also be a victim to contact Mesa Police Department at 480-644-2211.

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