4images taking too many mysql processes without closing

[dandanfireman]

I have a customer that makes heavy use of 4images gallery.  I started having a problem yesterday with very high loads on a very capable server.  Upon further investigation, I discovered that it appeared to be related to one of my customer's having over 150-200 mysql processes open and "sleeping" the customer only uses this database and user for a 4images gallery.  I spoke with the customer and they have no explanation as to what may have changed.  

Any suggestions?