Florence, South Carolina, September 21, 2025
News Summary
In Florence, South Carolina, a teaching assistant was arrested for allegedly creating significant disruptions at West Florence High School by spraying a foul odor reminiscent of fecal matter. This incident, occurring over several weeks, led to health concerns among students, prompting school authorities to spend $55,000 on inspection and repair costs. Alexander Paul Roberts Lewis faces charges such as disturbing schools and malicious injury to property, with further investigations continuing into the matter.
Florence, South Carolina – Teaching Assistant Arrested for Causing Foul Odor Disruptions at West Florence High School
Alexander Paul Roberts Lewis, 32, has been arrested in Florence, South Carolina, for allegedly causing significant disruptions at West Florence High School by spraying a foul odor that mimics fecal matter. The incidents, which occurred between August 25 and September 19, have raised serious health concerns among students and parents alike.
The odor, which was reportedly purchased online, has led to numerous complaints from students, some of whom sought medical attention for respiratory issues. Parents also reported symptoms in their children, including nausea, dizziness, and headaches. The situation created an uncomfortable and even hazardous environment for nearly 1,900 students who attend the school.
As a result of the disruptions caused by the unpleasant smell, West Florence High School has incurred about $55,000 in inspection and repair costs associated with its air conditioning system. The administration has faced backlash from parents who feel the school district did not address their concerns promptly.
Lewis, who is serving as a teaching assistant, has been charged with disturbing schools (non-student) and malicious injury to property valued at $10,000 or more. Following his arrest, he was taken to the Florence County Detention Center and has been held there while awaiting bond. His bond has been set at $8,000 for the malicious injury charge, which is due to be addressed in general sessions court on November 19, while a bond of $1,090 for the interfering with schools charge will be handled in magistrates’ court on October 15.
Currently, an investigation into the incidents is ongoing, and authorities indicate that additional charges may be forthcoming as the situation continues to develop. The foul odor has persisted throughout the school year, further exacerbating frustrations among students and parents.
Community members are understandably concerned about how such actions could affect school safety and the overall climate in an educational setting. The school district is under pressure to reassure parents that measures will be taken to prevent similar disruptions in the future.
Timeline of Events:
- August 25 – September 19: Lewis reportedly sprays a foul odor at West Florence High School.
- September 19: Lewis arrested and charged.
- Bond Information: Set for November 19 (malicious injury) and October 15 (interfering with schools).
Financial Implications:
The school has faced significant financial strain due to this incident, spending approximately $55,000 on inspections and necessary repairs to mitigate the odor and related issues.
Health Impact:
- Students experienced respiratory issues.
- Parents reported symptoms like nausea, dizziness, and headaches.
Frequently Asked Questions
What charges has Alexander Paul Roberts Lewis faced?
Lewis has been charged with disturbing schools and malicious injury to property exceeding $10,000.
How much has the school spent to address the odor issue?
West Florence High School has incurred approximately $55,000 in costs related to inspections and damage repairs.
What health issues have students reported?
Students have reported respiratory issues, nausea, dizziness, and headaches due to the foul odor.
What could happen next in this case?
Investigations remain ongoing, and there is the potential for additional charges to be filed against Lewis.
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Key Features Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Incident Location | West Florence High School |
| Accused Individual | Alexander Paul Roberts Lewis |
| Charges | Disturbing schools, malicious injury to property |
| Medical Reports | Respiratory issues, nausea, dizziness, headaches among students |
| Financial Impact | $55,000 spent on inspections and repairs |
| Student Enrollment | Approximately 1,900 students |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- WPDE: West Florence High School Gas Smell Incident
- Wikipedia: Foul Odor
- WACH: Teaching Assistant Arrested in Foul Odor Case
- Google Search: WEST FLORENCE HIGH SCHOOL Foul Odor
- Post and Courier: West Florence High School Odor Arrest
- Encyclopedia Britannica: School Health
- WIS TV: Florence Man Facing Charges for Foul Odor
- Google News: Florence High School Teaching Assistant Arrested
- WLTX: Florence Teaching Assistant Arrested
- Google Scholar: Foul Odor in Schools
- WYFF: South Carolina Man Arrested for Foul Smell at School
Author: STAFF HERE FLORENCE WRITER
FLORENCE STAFF WRITER The FLORENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREFlorence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Florence, Florence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Florence Festival of Lights, Pee Dee Pride, and agricultural expos at the Florence Center. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Florence Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Pee Dee Area Council of Governments, plus leading businesses in healthcare and retail that power the local economy such as McLeod Health and Pee Dee Electric Cooperative. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharleston.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGreenville.com, and HEREHiltonHead.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
