September 22, 2025

Teaching Assistant Arrested for Spraying Foul Odor in SC High School

Florence, South Carolina, September 22, 2025

News Summary

A teaching assistant at West Florence High School was arrested for allegedly spraying a substance that emits a foul odor, causing medical issues for students and property damage. The odor, reminiscent of feces, disrupted classes and resulted in over $55,000 in repairs. Alexander Paul Robertson Lewis faces charges of disturbing schools and malicious injury to property. The situation has raised serious concerns about the school’s environment and student safety, prompting ongoing investigations by law enforcement.

South Carolina Teaching Assistant Arrested for Spraying Foul Odor in High School, Leading to Medical Issues

Florence, South Carolina – A teaching assistant at West Florence High School has been arrested after allegedly spraying a foul-smelling substance on school grounds, resulting in medical issues for students and significant property damage. Alexander Paul Robertson Lewis, 32, faces multiple charges following incidents that took place between August 25 and September 19.

The Florence County Sheriff’s Office took Lewis into custody after he reportedly used a substance purchased online that emits an odor similar to that of feces. This action led to the disruption of classes and required students to seek medical attention for respiratory problems, raising serious concerns about the safety of the school’s environment.

As a result of the repeated odor incidents, the school incurred over $55,000 in expenses related to inspections and repairs for its air conditioning system. Authorities have categorized the offenses as disturbing schools and malice that caused damage to property valued at $10,000 or more.

Lewis is presently being held at the Florence County Detention Center while awaiting a bond hearing. The investigation remains ongoing, and law enforcement officials have indicated that additional charges may be forthcoming as more information surfaces.

Incident Timeline

August 25, 2023: First reported incident involving foul odor at West Florence High School.
September 19, 2023: Final identified incident leading to investigation and subsequent arrest of Alexander Paul Robertson Lewis.

Medical and Financial Impact

The medical issues experienced by students due to the odor resulted in emergency responses and medical visits, highlighting the serious nature of the situation. The financial burden placed on the school district, with repairs and inspections tallying over $55,000, raises concerns about the effective allocation of educational resources.

Background on Charges

Lewis has been charged with disturbing schools, an offense that reflects actions that compromise the educational environment, and malicious injury to property, defined by law as causing damage to property exceeding a specified value. The investigation is still in progress, and updates regarding any further legal actions are anticipated in the coming weeks.

Community Responses

The incidents have sparked responses from community members, with parents expressing concern for their children’s safety and well-being in the school environment. Educators and school officials continue to strive for a safe learning atmosphere, reinforcing the importance of immediately addressing any potential threats to student health.

Conclusion

The arrest of Alexander Paul Robertson Lewis serves as a stark reminder of the repercussions that such disruptive actions can have within educational institutions. The community remains hopeful for swift resolution and restoration of a conducive learning environment at West Florence High School.

FAQ Section

What substance did Alexander Lewis use to create the foul odor?

Lewis allegedly sprayed a substance that imitates fecal odor, which he purchased online.

How much did the school spend on repairs and inspections?

The school incurred expenses totaling over $55,000 for inspections and repairs to its air conditioning system due to the foul odor.

What charges has Alexander Lewis faced?

Lewis has been charged with disturbing schools and malicious injury to property valued at $10,000 or more.

What medical issues did students face due to the odor?

Students experienced respiratory problems that required medical attention due to the foul odor in the school.

Is the investigation ongoing?

Yes, the investigation is still ongoing, and there is a possibility of additional charges being filed.

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